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The Infinite Square Well Is Subtle

Quantum Physics 2015-05-04 v1

Abstract

We show that it needs a more delicate potential to confine particles inside a well. The original model containing a vague notation of infinity in the potential energy is ambiguous. Using the Heaviside step function and the Dirac delta-function, we give a precise form for the confining potential. Although such form appears unusual, the ambiguities are resolved. This form also shows that the infinite square well is not the limit of a finite square well.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.1505.00101,
  title  = {The Infinite Square Well Is Subtle},
  author = {Chyi-Lung Lin},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1505.00101},
  year   = {2015}
}

Comments

12 pages

R2 v1 2026-06-22T09:26:27.768Z