Principles of Quantum Mechanics · Problem 20.13

The Dirac Equation — R. Shankar

Physics — Quantum Mechanics · dirac-equation-klein-paradox

Problem

Consider a Dirac particle of energy EE and momentum pp (along the xx-axis) incident on a potential step of height V0V_0. Calculate the reflection and transmission coefficients and show that for V0>E+mc2V_0 > E + mc^2 the transmission coefficient exceeds unity (the Klein paradox). Interpret this result in terms of particle--antiparticle pair creation.

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