Construct States from Clebsch-Gordon Coefficients

In summary, the conversation discusses how to construct the state | 5/2, 3/2> using the eigenfunctions | L, L_z> and electron states | ↑> and | ↓>. The conversation also mentions the use of Clebsch-Gordan coefficients in solving this problem. The speaker is asking for guidance in finding the correct approach to constructing the state.
  • #1
DeldotB
117
7

Homework Statement



Hello all,
Im asked to construct the state [itex] | \frac{5}{2} , \frac{3}{2} \rangle [/itex] from the eigenfunctions [itex] | L, L_z\rangle [/itex] and the electron states [itex] | \uparrow \rangle [/itex] and [itex] | \downarrow \rangle [/itex].

Homework Equations



Clebsch Gordon Coefficient's table

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
To be honest, I am not sure how to get started. My book does not explain how to construct states from the eigenfunctions [itex] | L, L_z\rangle [/itex] and the electron states [itex] | \uparrow \rangle [/itex] and [itex] | \downarrow \rangle [/itex]. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Are you asked to write an eigenstate of the total angular momentum ##\mathbf{J} = \mathbf{L} + \mathbf{S}## (which is in this case ##|5/2,3/2\rangle##) in terms of the individual eigenstates of ##\mathbf{L}## and ##\mathbf{S}##? If yes, the easiest way is just to look up in the table of Clebsch-Gordan coefficients which you can find online.
 
Last edited:

What are Clebsch-Gordon coefficients and how are they used in constructing states?

Clebsch-Gordon coefficients are mathematical tools used to combine two or more angular momenta to form a new total angular momentum. In quantum mechanics, these coefficients are used to construct states with definite angular momentum from states with known values of individual angular momenta.

What is the significance of the Clebsch-Gordon coefficients in quantum mechanics?

The Clebsch-Gordon coefficients are essential in describing the quantum mechanical behavior of particles with spin and orbital angular momentum. They allow us to determine the possible values of total angular momentum and the relative probabilities of each state.

How do we calculate Clebsch-Gordon coefficients?

Clebsch-Gordon coefficients can be calculated using various methods, such as the Wigner-Eckart theorem or the Racah formula. These methods involve solving complex mathematical equations using the known values of the individual angular momenta and the rules of quantum mechanics.

What is the physical interpretation of Clebsch-Gordon coefficients?

The physical interpretation of Clebsch-Gordon coefficients is that they represent the amplitude for a particle to transition from one state to another with a specific total angular momentum. In other words, they describe the probability of a particle having a particular value of total angular momentum.

How are Clebsch-Gordon coefficients related to other mathematical tools in quantum mechanics?

Clebsch-Gordon coefficients are closely related to other mathematical tools in quantum mechanics, such as the addition of angular momenta and the rotation matrices. They also have connections to other areas of physics, such as group theory and representation theory.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
61
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
Back
Top