Find the matrix representation

In summary, a matrix representation is a way of expressing a mathematical object, such as a vector or a linear transformation, in terms of a matrix. To find the matrix representation of a vector, you simply write the vector as a column matrix. For a linear transformation, the matrix representation is found by applying the transformation to the basis vectors of the vector space. This representation can change depending on the basis vectors used. The importance of finding the matrix representation is that it allows for easier manipulation and computation of the object and provides a visual representation for better understanding.
  • #1
gabriellelee
21
1
Homework Statement
Find the matrix representation of \hat{S_x}, \hat{S_y}, \hat{S_z} for s = 1 spin one (electroweak Z-boson) in the basis of |sm> eigenstates.
Relevant Equations
Hint: do it for \hat{S_\pm} first.
Screen Shot 2020-04-02 at 8.51.02 PM.png

$$\hat{S_+} = \hbar \begin{bmatrix} 0 & \sqrt{2} & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & \sqrt{2} \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \end{bmatrix}$$
$$\hat{S_-} = \hbar \begin{bmatrix} 0 & 0 & 0 \\ \sqrt{2} & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & \sqrt{2} & 0 \end{bmatrix}$$
$$\hat{S_x} = \hbar/\sqrt{2} \begin{bmatrix} 0 & 1 & 0 \\ 1 & 0 & 1 \\ 0 & 1 & 0 \end{bmatrix}$$
$$\hat{S_y} = \hbar/\sqrt{2} \begin{bmatrix} 0 & -i & 0 \\ i & 0 & -i \\ 0 & i & 0 \end{bmatrix}$$
$$\hat{S_z} = \hbar \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & -1 \end{bmatrix}$$
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Correct!
 
  • Like
Likes PhDeezNutz and etotheipi

1. What is a matrix representation?

A matrix representation is a way of expressing a mathematical object, such as a linear transformation or a system of equations, using a matrix. It allows for easier manipulation and analysis of the object's properties.

2. How do you find the matrix representation of a linear transformation?

To find the matrix representation of a linear transformation, you need to first determine the basis vectors for the input and output spaces. Then, the columns of the matrix will represent the images of the basis vectors of the input space under the transformation.

3. Can the matrix representation of a linear transformation change depending on the basis vectors chosen?

Yes, the matrix representation of a linear transformation can change depending on the basis vectors chosen. This is because the choice of basis vectors determines the columns of the matrix, which in turn determine the transformation's behavior.

4. How do you find the matrix representation of a system of equations?

To find the matrix representation of a system of equations, you need to first rewrite the system in the form of a matrix equation. The coefficients of the variables will form the matrix, and the constants will form the vector on the right-hand side of the equation.

5. What is the importance of finding the matrix representation in scientific research?

Finding the matrix representation is important in scientific research because it allows for easier manipulation and analysis of mathematical objects, which are often used to model real-world phenomena. It also allows for the application of various mathematical techniques and algorithms to solve problems and make predictions.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
250
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
798
Replies
3
Views
861
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
876
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Back
Top