Question

why we cannot use schrodinger's equation for relativistic particles?

Answer 1

@douglaswinslowcooper can u explain a bit?

Answer 2

Because the non-relativisitic formulations of the Schroedinger equation don't take into account the relativistic relationship between energy and momentum or special relativity in general.

Answer 3

I do not know, but @PsiSquared's explanation seems plausible.

Answer 4

i have an explanation but i dont know it's correct or not
we prove schrodinder's equation using classical mechanics assuming mass=constant and total energy E=V+P^2/2*m, where V=potential enegry
but for motion of a relativistic particle mass cannot remain conatant it will change from position to position
so we are using non relativistic expressions
i think that's why schrodinger's equation is not applicable @PsiSquared

Answer 5

we are also considering momentum=MV
it is also a non relativistic expression is'nt it?

Answer 6

The point of departure, as I understand it is that relativistic energy starts with this definition: \[E ^{2}=p ^{2}c ^{2}+m ^{2}c ^{4}\]If you try to put that into Schroedingers equation, you have to take a square root. That's fine on the left side of the equation, but on the right side you'll have a radical under which you cannot place ψ. It won't be mathematically viable. Look up the Dirac Equation and the Klein-Gordon equation to see how they were able to formulate relativistic versions of the Schroedinger equation.

Answer 7

there is a relativistic versions of the Schroedinger equation?
can u give a link

Answer 8

oh i found it
thank u :)

Answer 9

You're welcome.