Computer-Generated Motion Pictures of One-Dimensional Quantum-Mechanical Transmission and Reflection Phenomena

Abstract

We describe the details involved in presenting the time development of one-dimensional quantum-mechanical systems in the form of computer-generated motion pictures intended for pedagogic purposes. Concentrating on reflection-transmission phenomena, we formulate the problem in terms of a Gaussian wave packet impinging on a square well or barrier and being reflected and transmitted. The wave equation is solved numerically by methods discussed in detail and photographs of the wave packet vs position at a variety of times and for a range of projectile energies are given.