Analysis of the infinite potential well models in the modern physics textbooks

Abstract We investigate the infinite potential well model in five modern physics textbooks widely used in undergraduate courses. We find that the textbooks utilize mechanical systems and electrical circuits, incorporating metaphorical terms to introduce the model, but they do not provide a clear explanation of the quantum nature of these systems and the requirements of quantum mechanics. In addition, the textbooks often inappropriately mix indeterministic and deterministic perspectives when explaining wave functions and measurement outcomes. Moreover, the textbooks present inaccurate descriptions, such as discrete momentum spectra, which rely on the de Broglie relation or the classical relation between kinetic energy and momentum. We finally suggest an appropriate scope of quantum mechanics concepts that the infinite potential well model can address and discuss the implications of our findings for teaching and learning at the introductory level.