Question Bank MSQ • 1 Mark Section 4: Quantum Mechanics Harmonic oscillator

QB_PH_092: Harmonic oscillator

Question Statement

For a one-dimensional quantum harmonic oscillator of mass $m$ and frequency $\omega$, which of the following statements is/are TRUE?
(A) The energy eigenvalues are given by $E_n = \left(n + \frac{1}{2}\right)\hbar\omega$ for $n = 0, 1, 2, \dots$
(B) The ground state energy is non-zero ($E_0 = \frac{1}{2}\hbar\omega$) due to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle
(C) The ladder operators satisfy the commutation relation $[a, a^\dagger] = 1$
(D) The ground state wavefunction has a node at $x = 0$
Correct Answer
A, B, C
Verified Key

Step-by-Step KaTeX Derivation & Detailed Explanation

### 5-Stage Derivation & Analytical Solution: 1. **Stage 1: Governing Concept & Domain Context:** * This question evaluates **Fundamentals of Fourier and Laplace transforms** under *Fourier and Laplace transforms* in GATE PH. 2. **Stage 2: Mathematical Derivation:** * Statements A, B, and C are fundamental quantum harmonic oscillator theorems. Statement D is false because the ground state $n = 0$ is strictly positive everywhere (a Gaussian bell curve) and has zero nodes. 3. **Stage 3: Distractor Elimination Forensics:** * The evaluated correct answer is derived using standard physical equations. * Distractor values correspond to typical unit conversion omissions or inverted formulas. 4. **Stage 4: Common Student Trap:** * *Trap:* Believing that the ground state wavefunction has a node at the origin. *Reference: George B. Arfken, Hans J. Weber, Mathematical Methods for Physicists (Academic Press).*
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