Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the origins and formulations of the momentum operator (P) and the energy operator (H) in quantum mechanics, specifically questioning their historical attribution and theoretical basis. Participants explore the relationship between these operators and classical mechanics, as well as seek references for further reading.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Historical
Main Points Raised
- One participant asks who first provided the commonly known spatial and temporal differential forms of the P and H operators, suggesting Schrödinger as a candidate.
- Another participant asserts that Schrödinger is indeed the one who provided these forms, citing that they reproduce Schrödinger's equation.
- There is a question about whether these operators depend on the classical mechanics correspondence principle, with a response indicating that the principle was formulated by N. Bohr after observing results from Schrödinger and quantum mechanics in general.
- References to Schrödinger's original articles published in "Annalen der Physik" in 1926 are provided, detailing specific volumes and pages where the relevant formulations can be found.
- Participants express a need for access to English electronic versions of the five papers published by Schrödinger in "Annalen der Physik".
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
There is no consensus on the historical details surrounding the operators, as participants present differing views on the attribution and implications of the correspondence principle. The need for references and access to original papers indicates ongoing exploration rather than resolution.
Contextual Notes
Participants reference specific articles and their content, but there is no agreement on the completeness or accuracy of the historical claims made. The discussion reflects a reliance on various interpretations of quantum mechanics and its historical development.