Understanding the spreading of a Gaussian wave packet using the Bohmian machinery

Gary E. Bowman

Gary E. Bowman

Zharko Tasev, Gjorgji Ivanovski

Gary E. Bowman

Although Bohmian mechanics has attracted considerable interest as a causal interpretation of quantum mechanics, it also possesses intrinsic heuristic value, arising from calculational tools and physical insights that are unavailable in “standard” quantum mechanics. We illustrate by examining the behavior of Gaussian harmonic oscillator wave packets from the Bohmian perspective. By utilizing familiar classical concepts and techniques, we obtain a physically transparent picture of packet behavior. This example provides, at a level accessible to students, a concrete illustration of Bohmian mechanics as a heuristic device that can enhance both understanding and discovery.

Andrey Pereverzev, Eric R. Bittner

Jeremy Schiff B, Bill Poirier

The free particle non-relativistic Schrodinger evolution of a sech wave packet, and the corresponding Wigner function and Bohmian trajectories, are studied. The overall translation and dispersion dynamics are qualitatively similar to corresponding Gaussian wave packets, as is to be expected. On the other hand, certain bizarre and completely unexpected features are also observed, such as wave packet pinching and the instantaneous formation of infinitely many nodes, despite the apparent lack of an interference source.