The quantum Gaussian well

Different features of a potential in the form of a Gaussian well have been discussed extensively. Although the details of the calculation are involved, the general approach uses a variational method and WKB approximation, techniques that should be familiar to advanced undergraduates. A numerical solution of the Schrodinger equation through diagonalization has been developed in a self-contained way, and physical applications of the potential are mentioned. [c] 2010 American Association of Physics Teachers. [DOI: 10.1119/1.3474665]