Coupled 2D harmonic oscillators

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the transformation of coordinates for coupled 2D harmonic oscillators, specifically using the rescaled coordinates X and Y defined as X=(x1+x2)/√2 and Y=√3(x1-x2)/√2. Participants address the challenge of expressing kinetic energy terms in these new coordinates, emphasizing the need to relate momentum operators to the new variables. The solution involves calculating the second derivatives in terms of the new coordinates and identifying interaction terms between X and Y. The final answer to the posed problem is confirmed as option B.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 2D harmonic oscillators
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics and momentum operators
  • Knowledge of coordinate transformations in physics
  • Ability to compute second derivatives in multiple dimensions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of kinetic energy in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about coordinate transformations in classical mechanics
  • Explore the mathematical treatment of coupled oscillators
  • Investigate the implications of interaction terms in quantum systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and harmonic oscillator systems, will benefit from this discussion.

Apashanka das
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1. The problem statementhttps://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/225935

Homework Equations

3. I have rescaled coordinates which are X=(x1+x2)/√2 and Y=√3(x1-x2)/√2 for which the potential term becomes for a 2D harmonic oscillator of coordinates X and Y. But how to express Kinetic terms in terms of these new coordinates X and Y?
 

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solve for x_1 and x_2 in terms of X, Y then find the kinetic energy.
 
Dr Transport said:
solve for x_1 and x_2 in terms of X, Y then find the kinetic energy.
sorry sir I didn't get you here QM kinetic term is nedded
 
\hat{p} can be related to the \dot{X}, you just have to find the momentum operators in terms of your new coordinates.
 
Dr Transport said:
\hat{p} can be related to the \dot{X}, you just have to find the momentum operators in terms of your new coordinates.
sir but in calculating p2 there will be again interaction term between X And Y
Sir I am actually trying to find d2/dx12 in terms of d2/dX2 and d2/dY2
 
Dr Transport said:
\hat{p} can be related to the \dot{X}, you just have to find the momentum operators in terms of your new coordinates.
O thank you sir I have got it
The ans is option B
 

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