A basic question on representation theory

In summary, the problem involves finding the value of a given operator in the spin 1/2 representation of SU(2). The question also mentions the use of the Wigner Eckart theorem, but the individual attempting to solve the problem is stuck at a certain step. They are looking for any comments or hints to help them make progress.
  • #1
nickthequick
53
0

Homework Statement



Hey, this is problem 4A out of Georgi (Lie Algebras in particle physics). The question says given an operator [tex]O_x [/tex] , x=1,2, in the spin 1/2 rep of SU(2). [tex][J_a,O_x]=O_y(\sigma_a)_{yx}/2 [/tex] where [tex] \sigma_a[/tex] are the Pauli spin matrices.

Given
[tex]
A=\langle 3/2, -1/2, \alpha|O_1|1,-1,\beta\rangle
[/tex]
find

[tex]
B=\langle 3/2, -3/2, \alpha|O_2|1,-1,\beta\rangle
[/tex]

Homework Equations



This seems to be a basic application of the Wigner Eckart theorem, I just cannot seem to make any fruitful progress. Any comments/ hints would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
The Attempt at a Solution I guess the first step is to find \langle 3/2, -1/2|O_1|1,-1\rangle. We know that [J_a,O_x]=O_y(\sigma_a)_{yx}/2 , so we can say \langle 3/2, -1/2|[J_z,O_1]|1,-1\rangle = \langle 3/2, -1/2|O_2|1,-1\rangle (\sigma_z)_{21}/2. I am stuck here.
 

1. What is representation theory?

Representation theory is a branch of mathematics that studies how abstract algebraic structures, such as groups, rings, and algebras, can be represented by linear transformations of vector spaces. It provides a powerful tool for understanding and analyzing these structures.

2. What are the applications of representation theory?

Representation theory has applications in various areas of mathematics, including number theory, topology, and algebraic geometry. It is also used in physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, to describe the symmetries of physical systems.

3. What are the basic concepts in representation theory?

The basic concepts in representation theory include group representations, modules, characters, and irreducible representations. These concepts are used to study the structure of groups and other algebraic structures.

4. How is representation theory related to other branches of mathematics?

Representation theory has connections to many other areas of mathematics, including algebra, combinatorics, and geometry. It also has applications in theoretical physics and computer science.

5. How does representation theory relate to linear algebra?

Representation theory is closely related to linear algebra, as it deals with linear transformations of vector spaces. However, it goes beyond linear algebra by studying representations of more general algebraic structures, such as groups and algebras.

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