Why Does My Calculation Have an Extra Factor of 2?

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The discussion revolves around a calculation that unexpectedly includes an extra factor of 2, with participants struggling to identify the mistake. Suggestions are made to improve clarity by using LaTeX for formatting mathematical expressions, which can help others understand the problem better. A specific example of how to format the equation in LaTeX is provided, emphasizing the importance of legibility. The conversation highlights the need for clear communication in mathematical discussions to facilitate problem-solving. Proper formatting can significantly enhance the ability to identify errors in calculations.
RealKiller69
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Homework Statement
Calculate. <2,0,0|&(x)P_z+P_z&(x)|2,1,0>
Where |n,l,m> are the hydrogen atom eigenstates, &(x) is dirac delta and x is the position operator . It should be -iħ/(16pia_0^4) a_0=ħ^2/me^2 .
Relevant Equations
Not many
15745216454334312777540192084427.jpg

My solution is not the same, it has an additional *2 factor and i can't see any mistakes.
 
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You may be lucky and find someone who can spot the mistake in that lot. It's practically illegible to me, I'm sorry to say.

At the very least, you could write out legibly what you've got - or, ideally, learn Latex:

https://www.physicsforums.com/help/latexhelp/
 
I will chime into say yes, please use the LaTeX guide to format your question in readable format. That doesn't describe every LaTeX feature, but most of what you need to ask your question. But also to give some examples. It's not that hard to learn.

Here is your question with the LaTeX.

Calculate. <2,0,0|&(x)P_z+P_z&(x)|2,1,0>

Use \delta for a lower case ##\delta## symbol. The rest of that expression will work as is. Embed it between ##\text{##}## symbols to invoke the LaTeX interpreter. Thus, you would type this:
##\text{##}##<2,0,0|\delta(x)P_z+P_z \delta(x)|2,1,0>##\text{##}##
to get this:
##<2,0,0|\delta(x)P_z+P_z \delta(x)|2,1,0>##

It should be -iħ/(16pia_0^4) a_0=ħ^2/me^2

Is that all meant to be one equation? Perhaps this one?
##\left [ -i \hbar / (16 \pi a_0^4) \right ] a_0 = \hbar^2 / me^2##
Again, what you wrote is almost correct LaTeX syntax. The LaTeX looks like this:
##\#\### \left [ -i \hbar / (16 \pi a_0^4) \right ] a_0 = \hbar^2 / me^2##\#\###

Prefixing brackets with "\left" and "\right" creates stretchy brackets that stretch vertically enough to match whatever is inside.
 

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