A pedagogical approach to relativity effects in quantum mechanics

Abstract

Abstract A simple but precise approach to relativistic quantum mechanics is presented. The approach is based on the use of a Schrödinger-like, little-known but well-studied quantum mechanics wave equation. Such formal similitude allows undergraduate students to quantitatively explore how the results corresponding to a typical non-relativistic quantum problem change when the particle is moving at relativistic speeds. No additional mathematical skills are required. We argue in favor of the academic use of this approach for including the implications of the special theory of relativity in introductory quantum mechanics courses.