Commutation of angular momentum operators

In summary, commutation of angular momentum operators is a mathematical operation used in quantum mechanics to calculate the commutator between two angular momentum operators. This is important because it helps determine uncertainty in measurements and plays a crucial role in understanding particle dynamics. The commutation is calculated using a formula involving multiplication and subtraction, and has physical significance in predicting particle behavior. It is also closely related to other quantum mechanical operators, such as position and momentum operators.
  • #1
michbar89
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Homework Statement



None of the operators Lz, Ly and Lx commute. Show that [Lx,Ly] = i(h-cross)Lz


Homework Equations



Where Lx is defined as Lx=-ih ( y delta/delta x - z delta/delta y)
Where Ly is defined as Ly=-ih ( z delta/delta x - x delta/delta z)
Where Lz is defined as Lz=-ih ( x delta/delta y - y delta/delta x)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Use the following commutator identities:

[tex]
\begin{align*}
& [A,B+C]=[A,B]+[A,C]
\\
& [A,BC]=[A,B]C+B[A,C]
\end{align*}
[/tex]
 

1. What is commutation of angular momentum operators?

Commutation of angular momentum operators refers to the mathematical operation of calculating the commutator between two angular momentum operators. This operation is important in quantum mechanics as it helps us understand how the operators behave and how they affect the system being studied.

2. Why is commutation of angular momentum operators important?

The commutation of angular momentum operators is important because it helps us determine the uncertainty associated with the measurement of angular momentum in a quantum system. It also plays a crucial role in studying the dynamics of particles and their interactions through the use of quantum mechanical equations.

3. How is commutation of angular momentum operators calculated?

The commutation of angular momentum operators is calculated using the commutator formula, which involves multiplying the two operators and then subtracting the result in reverse order. This can be simplified using the commutation relations between the different components of the operators.

4. What is the physical significance of the commutation of angular momentum operators?

The commutation of angular momentum operators has physical significance as it helps us understand the behavior of particles on a microscopic scale. It allows us to make predictions about the behavior of particles in terms of their angular momentum and how it changes over time, which is crucial in understanding the fundamental laws that govern the universe.

5. How does commutation of angular momentum operators relate to other quantum mechanical operators?

The commutation of angular momentum operators is closely related to other quantum mechanical operators, such as position and momentum operators. This is because all these operators are used to describe the properties and behavior of quantum particles, and their commutation relations are essential in understanding the dynamics of these particles and their interactions with each other.

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