Solutions

(*1*)

Try different values of n. The polynomial LegendreP[n,x] is an n:th degree polynomial with all its zeros on the interval [-1,1]. You will encounter these functions in quantum mechanics, where they constitute the solution for the angular part of the Hydrogen atom Schrödinger equation.

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Plot[LegendreP[9, x], {x, -1, 1}]

[Graphics:../HTMLFiles/ex02_solutions_73.gif]

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Hermite polynomials, which form the solution for the wave function of the harmonic oscillator in quantum mechanics, are also n:th degree.

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Plot[HermiteH[4, x], {x, -3, 3}]

[Graphics:../HTMLFiles/ex02_solutions_76.gif]

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Laguerre polynomials solve the radial part of the Hydrogen atom Schrödinger equation.

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Plot[LaguerreL[6, x], {x, -1, 10}]

[Graphics:../HTMLFiles/ex02_solutions_79.gif]

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Mathieu functions are needed in the theory of oscillators. Maybe you'll avoid these.

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Plot[MathieuC[3, 2, x], {x, 0, 20}]

[Graphics:../HTMLFiles/ex02_solutions_82.gif]

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The Riemann zeta-function is an important function in mathematics, but rarely needed in physics.

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Plot[Zeta[x, 4], {x, -5, 5}]

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(*2*)R = 5 ; w = 2 ; ParametricPlot3D[{(R + s Cos[t/2]) Cos[t], (R + s Cos[t/2]) Sin[t], s Sin[t/2]}, {t, 0, 2Pi}, {s, -w, w}]

[Graphics:../HTMLFiles/ex02_solutions_88.gif]

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⁃Graphics3D⁃


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