Learning shape resonances from the stabilization method
Resonances in quantum mechanics are commonly introduced as quasi-bound states embedded in the continuum, a perspective that can be conceptually challenging due to the abstract nature of continuum states. In this work, we discuss an alternative approach that avoids an explicit treatment of the continuum by formulating the problem in terms of discrete quantum states. Our discussion is based on the stabilization method, in which the system is confined to a finite region such that the continuum is replaced by a discrete energy spectrum. Resonances then appear as characteristic features in the energy levels under variation of the confining box size, providing an intuitive interpretation in terms of a two-level system while remaining closely connected to standard quantum mechanics curriculum. We review the method, derive selected results, and discuss practical strategies for extracting resonance parameters from stabilization diagrams. In addition to established fitting procedures, we introduce a novel approach based on the analysis of spatial localization of resonant states, which enables a robust identification of resonance properties. The approach is illustrated using both attractive and repulsive delta-shell potentials, which serve as simple and instructive model systems amenable to analytical treatment.