Solving Angular Momentum Homework: Lx = h

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a quantum mechanics problem involving angular momentum, specifically determining the most likely outcome of measuring Lz when Lx is known to be h. The user constructed the Lx matrix using the |lm> basis, which are eigenfunctions of Lz for l=1. After exploring projection methods and expressing the problem in terms of spherical harmonics, the user concluded that solving for the eigenvalues and eigenstates of Lx in the |lm> basis was the most effective approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with eigenfunctions and eigenvalues
  • Knowledge of spherical harmonics
  • Experience with quantum state projection techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of angular momentum operators in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the mathematical formulation of spherical harmonics
  • Explore the process of finding eigenstates and eigenvalues for quantum systems
  • Investigate projection techniques in quantum mechanics for state measurements
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on angular momentum, eigenvalue problems, and quantum state measurements.

myradiogalaxy
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Lx is measured to be h, what is the most likely outcome of the next measurement of Lz


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So far I built the matrix Lx with |lm> basis where |lm> is a eigenfunction of Lz, for l =1.

Not being not sure where to go from there I went for a more direct method of taking the projection < lz, mz | lx=1, mx=1> and solving it, and the one with the largest magnitude would win. But the only way I could figure that would be to expand < lz, mz | lx=1, mx=1> into < lz, mz | n >< n l lx=1, mx=1>, where n is the directional eigenket, which I believe gives two spherical harmonics where later has to be rotated from x to z.

To sum up I feel pretty insecure about all this and hope there's a better way.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Ok I figured it out. Solving for the eigenvalues/eigenstates for Lx in a |lm> basis was all I had to do. I wonder how it would compare to that other method.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
13K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
13K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
6K