Commutation of Angular and Linear Momentum

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the commutation relation between angular momentum operators \(L_{j}\) and the square of momentum \(\vec{p}^2\). It is established that the relation \([L_{j}, \vec{p}^2] = 0\) holds true for \(j = x, y, z\). Participants clarify that this can be rewritten as \([L_{j}, \vec{p} \vec{p}] = 0\) and evaluated using the identity \([A, BC] = B[A, C] + [A, B]C\). The correct application of the ABC rule is emphasized, correcting a common misconception in the evaluation of such commutation relations.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics and operator algebra
  • Familiarity with angular momentum operators in quantum physics
  • Knowledge of commutation relations and their significance
  • Proficiency in vector calculus, particularly in evaluating dot products
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atomicpedals
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If I have a relation such as [tex][L_{j} , \vec{p}^2]=0[/tex] where j=x,y,z.

Can I re-write it as [tex][L_{j}, \vec{p} \vec{p}]=0[/tex] and then evaluate it as though it were an identity? e.g. [tex][A,BC]=[A,B]C+[B,A]C=...[/tex]
 
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atomicpedals said:
If I have a relation such as [tex][L_{j} , \vec{p}^2]=0[/tex] where j=x,y,z.

Can I re-write it as [tex][L_{j}, \vec{p} \vec{p}]=0[/tex] and then evaluate it as though it were an identity? e.g. [tex][A,BC]=[A,B]C+[B,A]C=...[/tex]

If unsure, you are better off explicitly writing out the dot product:
[itex][ L_j, \vec{p}^2] = [L_j, \sum_{k} p_k^2] = \sum_{k} [L_j, p_k^2][/itex]

Now you can apply the ABC rule. The one you quote is wrong, by the way. It should be:
[itex][A, BC] = B[A,C] + [A,B]C[/itex]
 
Thanks for the help!
 

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