Computing operator in bra-ket within momentum space

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on computing the operator in bra-ket notation within momentum space, specifically the expression e^{ip'x}|x^{2}|e^{ipx}>. The user identifies the challenge of integrating in position space and proposes rewriting the operator in momentum space using the second-order differential operator ∂²/∂p². The correct approach involves transforming both wavefunctions e^{ip'x} and e^{ipx} into momentum space, leading to the use of the delta function δ(p₁-p) for accurate integration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of bra-ket notation in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with momentum space representation of wavefunctions
  • Knowledge of Fourier transforms
  • Proficiency in differential operators, specifically ∂²/∂p²
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Fourier transforms in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the delta function and its applications in momentum space
  • Explore the use of differential operators in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the implications of wavefunction transformations between position and momentum space
USEFUL FOR

Quantum mechanics students, physicists working with wavefunctions, and researchers involved in momentum space analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Void123
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Homework Statement



<e^{ip'x}|x^{2}|e^{ipx}>


Homework Equations








The Attempt at a Solution



Its pretty obvious that its difficult to integrate in position-space, so I rewrite x in momentum space (i.e. the second-order differential operator with respect to p).

If that is the case, is this correct (which is the part I'm not sure about):

C \int^{-\infty}_{-\infty} e^{ip'x}\frac{∂^{2}}{∂p^{2}}e^{ipx} dp

(hbar is absorbed into the constant on the side)

Or do I have to Fourier transform e^{ip'x} and e^{ipx}?

Thanks.
 
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e^{ipx} is the wavefunction given in position space, so if you want to integrate in momentum space, you need to express the wavefunctions in momentum space as well, which should be \delta(p_1-p)
 

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