Creation and annihilation operators

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the annihilation and creation operators in quantum physics. The annihilation operator, represented by a, lowers bra states, while the creation operator, represented by a+, raises ket states. When acting on a normalized state, the result is a conjugation of the operator and the ket state.
  • #1
TimeRip496
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- a|n>=C|n-1>
- a+|n>=D|n+1>

And because |n-1> is normalized, <n-1|n-1>=1: (<n|a+)(a|n>)=C2
Thus, <n|a+a|n>=C2

Where a is the annihilation operator and a+ is the creation operator

I don't understand this as isn't <n|a+=<n+1|D , thus <n|a+a|n> =<n+1|DC|n-1> instead?

This is from the quantum physics for dummies.
 
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  • #2
No, the annihilation operator raises ket states, which it acts on from the left, but lowers bra states. The relation is simply the conjugation of a|n> = C|n-1>. Conjugation switches the order of the expressions, turn bras into kets, kets into bras, and conjugates operators.
 
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1. What are creation and annihilation operators?

Creation and annihilation operators are mathematical operators commonly used in quantum mechanics to describe the creation and annihilation of particles. They are used to model the behavior of quantum systems, such as atoms and subatomic particles.

2. How do creation and annihilation operators work?

Creation operators add a particle to a quantum system, while annihilation operators remove a particle from the system. They follow specific mathematical rules and can be applied to different types of particles, such as fermions and bosons.

3. What is the significance of creation and annihilation operators in quantum mechanics?

Creation and annihilation operators are essential in quantum mechanics because they help us understand and predict the behavior of quantum systems. They allow us to describe the creation and destruction of particles in a precise and mathematical way.

4. How are creation and annihilation operators related to each other?

Creation and annihilation operators are related through a mathematical relationship known as the commutation relation. This relation describes how the operators interact with each other and is crucial for understanding the behavior of quantum systems.

5. Can creation and annihilation operators be observed in experiments?

No, creation and annihilation operators cannot be directly observed in experiments. They are mathematical tools used to describe the behavior of quantum systems and cannot be measured directly. However, their effects can be observed through the behavior of particles and their interactions.

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