Answer to Question #164186 in Physical Chemistry for Harsha

Question

Eigenvalue of the total energy operator partical box

Answer 1

We see that the Schrodinger equation is

H¥=E¥ (where the symbol ¥ represents the Greek letter psi, let the reader understand)

This form of equation where an operator (H) operates on a function (¥) and gives a number (E) multiplying the original number is called an eigenvalue equation.

The recognition that the Schrodinger equation is of this form has led to the introduction of various different names for E and ¥. E is called energy eigenvalue while ¥ is called the eigenfunction or eigenstate of the system for this energy.

All these words stem from eigen which is the German word for "Characteristics".