Schmidt decomposition theorem proof

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SUMMARY

The Schmidt decomposition theorem states that for any vector in the tensor product space \( H_1 \otimes H_2 \), there exists a choice of bases such that the vector can be expressed as \( x \otimes y = \sum_{n=1}^\infty \sqrt{p_n} a_n \otimes b_n \), with the normalization condition \( \sum_n \sqrt{p_n} = 1 \). This theorem applies to both finite and infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces, although the discussion primarily focuses on the infinite-dimensional case. The proof for the finite-dimensional scenario is available on Wikipedia, while the infinite-dimensional proof requires further exploration, particularly through resources like Preskill's lecture notes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hilbert spaces
  • Familiarity with tensor products
  • Knowledge of eigenvalues and operators
  • Basic principles of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the finite-dimensional proof of the Schmidt decomposition theorem on Wikipedia
  • Explore infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces and their properties
  • Review section 2.4 of Preskill's lecture notes for insights on the theorem
  • Investigate the relationship between eigenvalues of operators and the Schmidt decomposition
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physicists, and students studying quantum mechanics, particularly those interested in the properties of Hilbert spaces and tensor products.

Fredrik
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I would be interested in seeing a correct statement and proof of the Schmidt decomposition theorem that (I think) says that if x\otimes y\in H_1\otimes H_2, there exists a choice of bases for these Hilbert spaces, such that

x\otimes y=\sum_{n=1}^\infty \sqrt{p_n}\ a_n\otimes b_n

with \sum_n\sqrt{p_n}=1. I'm not even sure that this is what the theorem says. Maybe it applies to all members of the tensor product space, and not just members of the form x\otimes y. Wikipedia has a proof for the finite-dimensional case (here), but I'm more interested in the infinite-dimensional case. (I haven't made the effort to try to understand the finite-dimensional case yet). I found this, but I don't see how to relate it to what I wrote above. Maybe it's a completely different theorem, but there are some similarities with Wikipedia's approach (they both talk about eigenvalues of operators of the form (T*T)1/2) that suggest that this is in fact the right theorem, and that I just need to figure out how to use it. (The pages that can't be read at Google Books can be read at Amazon).
 
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Maybe try section 2.4 of Preskill's notes http://www.theory.caltech.edu/people/preskill/ph229/#lecture .
 

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