Theoretical Calculation of the Tree Structure Height Limit by WKB Approximation of the Schrödinger Equation
摘要
We analyse the limit to tree height by employing elementary quantum mechanics. The xylem is assumed as a one-dimensional vertical potential well without any rigid walls; transporting a water molecule in an oscillating medium. A macromolecule with coherence can behave quantum mechanically. By applying the quantization rule of the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin approximation of the Schrödinger equation to the Bernoulli equation, a general quadratic equation on the limit of the tree height is derived. The limit of tree height is therefore calculated to range from 0 to 203.87 m, and approaches the peak value of 101.94 m (as the quantum number increases).