The parabolic potential well V(x) = ½kx² traps the particle.
Unlike a classical ball that can sit still at the bottom, a quantum particle always has Zero-Point Energy.
It can never be completely at rest (Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle).
> Wavefunctions (ψₙ): Oscillating probability patterns with increasing “humps” and nodes as energy level n rises.
> Quantization: Energy comes in discrete steps:
Eₙ = ħω (n + ½) n = 0, 1, 2, ...
> Dirac’s Ladder Operators elegantly raise and lower between these states.
> Exact solutions use Hermite polynomials (Hₙ).