2pi rotation of angular momentum eigenket

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving the equation ## e^{2\pi i \mathbf{n\cdot J}/\hbar} |j,m\rangle = (-1)^{2j}|j,m\rangle ##, which involves the rotation operator for angular momentum eigenstates as described in Ballentine's Quantum Mechanics. The participants explore the implications of this equation for both integer and half-integer spin states, referencing E. P. Wigner's results. The proof is confirmed for spin-1/2 particles, but the challenge lies in extending this to arbitrary spin values, particularly half-integer spins.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with rotation operators and their mathematical representation
  • Knowledge of spin states and their properties
  • Basic concepts from Ballentine's Quantum Mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the proof of angular momentum eigenstates in Ballentine's Quantum Mechanics
  • Research E. P. Wigner's contributions to quantum mechanics and rotation operators
  • Explore the implications of half-integer spin states in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the mathematical representation of rotation in three-dimensional space
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on angular momentum, spin states, and the mathematical foundations of quantum theory.

blue_leaf77
Science Advisor
Messages
2,637
Reaction score
786

Homework Statement


Prove that ## e^{2\pi i \mathbf{n\cdot J}/\hbar} |j,m\rangle = (-1)^{2j}|j,m\rangle ##. This equation is from Ballentine's QM book. The term in front of the ket state in the LHS is a rotation operator through ##2\pi## angle about an arbitrary direction ##\mathbf{n}##.

Homework Equations


Above

The Attempt at a Solution


I can prove this for spin one half particle using the identity ## (\mathbf{ \sigma \cdot n})^2 = 1##, but not for an arbitrary j. Does he simply quote this from the result of E. P. Wigner's work, as also stated in the book?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
In my edition of Ballentine (1st edition), he outlines the proof in the remaining part of the paragraph where the equation is given. I think I follow his argument. See if you can pinpoint where you have difficulty with his reasoning.
 
On a second thought it makes sense if I visualize it as a vector in R3 rotated about arbitrary direction by ##2\pi##, it should go back to its original position. But it becomes a somewhat delicate issue for half-integer spin states. Maybe I should go through the entire section first and see if it proves also for half-integer spins.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
0
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K