Abstract

A mixed quantum system can be represented by a density matrix. By knowing the density matrix of the system, other thermodynamic properties of the system such as Helmholtz free energy and entropy can be determined. Computation of the density matrix of a one-dimensional single-particle quantum system using the discretized path integral(DPI) method is presented. The results of the DPI method were validated using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method for a particle in an infinite square well and harmonic oscillator potentials. The results of density matrix, Helmholtz’s free energy and entropy have shown that the DPI method produces correct numerical values compared to the FDTD results. Then, the DPI method is used in the double-well potential by giving variations in barrier potential and temperature of the system. The results show that the particle will be tunneling when the barrier potential energy is more than the kinetic energy of the particle. The particle also can tunnel easily if the system has the higher temperature.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call