An electron is in a one-dimensional trap with zero potential energy in the interior and infinite potential energy at the walls. A graph of its probability density P(x) versus x is shown. The value of the quantum number n is:
A) 0
B) 1
C) 2
D) 3
E) 4

Question

An electron is in a one-dimensional trap with zero potential energy in the interior and infinite potential energy at the walls. A graph of its probability density P(x) versus x is shown. The value of the quantum number n is: 
A) 0 
B) 1 
C) 2 
D) 3 
E) 4

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The probability density graph shows three peaks, indicating three nodes. The number of nodes is equal to n-1, so n=4. Therefore, the correct choice is C.

An Electron Is in a One-Dimensional Trap with Zero Potential