Is the unitary operator unique?

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In summary, there is a theorem in Sakurai that states the existence of a unitary operator U that maps two sets of orthonormal and complete base kets to each other. The conditions for a unitary operator are also defined. The speaker asks if U is unique, to which the responder confirms that it is, as it is determined by the fixed basis sets. This is the end of the conversation.
  • #1
Demon117
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So there is a theorem at the beginning of section 1.5 in Sakurai that states the following:

Given two sets of base kets, both satisfying orthonormality and completeness. there exists a unitary operator [itex]U[/itex] such that

[itex]|b^{(1)}> = U|a^{(1)}>,|b^{(2)}> = U|a^{(2)}>,...,|b^{(n)}> = U|a^{(n)}> [/itex]

By a unitary operator we mean an operator fulfilling the conditions

[itex]U^{t}U=1[/itex]

as well as

[itex]UU^{t}=1[/itex]

So this is not difficult to prove. But my real question is can we prove that [itex]U[/itex] is unique or is that just not the case and why?
 
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  • #2
The elements of U are [itex] U_{nm} = \langle a_n | U | a_m \rangle = \langle a_n | b_m \rangle, [/itex] so if you fix the basis sets then you fix U.
 
  • #3
Physics Monkey said:
The elements of U are [itex] U_{nm} = \langle a_n | U | a_m \rangle = \langle a_n | b_m \rangle, [/itex] so if you fix the basis sets then you fix U.

That is what I thought, but I wanted a second opinion. Thank you.
 

1. What is a unitary operator?

A unitary operator is a mathematical concept in linear algebra that describes a transformation that preserves the length and angle of a vector. It is often used in quantum mechanics to represent time evolution of a system.

2. Why is it important for a unitary operator to be unique?

If a unitary operator is not unique, it means there are multiple operators that can perform the same transformation on a vector. This can lead to confusion and inconsistencies in calculations and may not accurately represent the physical system being studied.

3. How do you determine if a unitary operator is unique?

To determine if a unitary operator is unique, you can perform a series of mathematical operations on the operator and compare it to the original operator. If the result is the same, then the operator is unique. Additionally, you can also check if the operator satisfies the unitarity condition, which requires the operator to be invertible and its inverse to be equal to its adjoint.

4. What happens if a unitary operator is not unique?

If a unitary operator is not unique, it means there are multiple operators that can perform the same transformation. This can lead to different results and interpretations of the same physical system, which can be problematic in scientific research and experiments.

5. Are all unitary operators unique?

No, not all unitary operators are unique. It is possible for an operator to satisfy the unitarity condition but still have multiple representations. However, in most cases, unitary operators are unique and it is important to ensure uniqueness in order to make accurate calculations and predictions in quantum mechanics.

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