3-D Schrodinger Equation

In three dimensions, the time-independent Schrodinger equation takes the

form

for cartesian coordinates. This can be written in a more compact form by

making use of the Laplacian operator

The Schrodinger equation can then be written:

For systems with a spherically symmetric potential, like the hydrogen

atom, it is advantageous to use spherical coordinates.
22 September 2011

Quantum Physics/ZAIS/

Schrodinger Equation, Spherical Coordinates

f the potential of the physical system to be examined is spherically
symmetric, then the Schrodinger equation in spherical polar coordinates can
be used to advantage. For a three-dimensional problem, the Laplacian in
spherical polar coordinates is used to express the Schrodinger equation in the
condensed form

Expanded, it takes the form

This is the form best suited for the study of the hydrogen atom.

22 September 2011

Quantum Physics/ZAIS/