The probability distributions for the harmonic-oscillator wave functions (see Figs. 40.27 and 40.28) begin to resemble the classical (Newtonian) probability distribution when the quantum number n becomes large. Would the distributions become the same as in the classical case in the limit of very large n? Explain.

Fig.40.27

Fig.40.28

Transcribed Image Text:

n= 21L -A -A The larger the value of n, the more closely the quantum-mechanical probability distribution (green) matches the Newtonian probability distribution (blue). n = 10 wingt -A A