Demonstration [L_i,x_j]= ε_ijk x_k

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The discussion revolves around demonstrating the commutation relation [L_i, x_j] = iħε_ijk x_k. The user initially miscalculated the expression, leading to a result of (ħ/i)ε_ijk x_j. Through clarification, it was pointed out that the factor of (1/i) can be rewritten as i, due to the properties of the Levi-Civita symbol ε_ijk and the commutation of indices. This realization helped the user arrive at the correct solution. The exchange highlights the importance of understanding the algebraic properties of the symbols involved.
ebol
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Hi!
I have to show that
[L_i,x_j]= i \hbar \varepsilon_{ijk} x_k

but my result is different, I'm definitely making a mistake :confused:
ok I wrote
L_i = \varepsilon_{ijk} x_j p_k
then
[L_i,x_l]= \varepsilon_{ijk} ( [x_j p_k , x_l] ) = \varepsilon_{ijk} ( {x_j [p_k , x_l] + [x_j , x_l] p_k } ) = \varepsilon_{ijk} ( {x_j [p_k , x_l] } ) =

= \varepsilon_{ijk} ( {x_j \frac{\hbar}{i} δ_{kl} } ) = \frac{\hbar}{i} \varepsilon_{ijk} {x_j }

can anyone tell me where I'm wrong? :frown:
thanks anyway! :smile:
 
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welcome to pf!

hi ebol! welcome to pf! :smile:
ebol said:
I have to show that
[L_i,x_j]= i \hbar \varepsilon_{ijk} x_k

= \frac{\hbar}{i} \varepsilon_{ijk} {x_j }

but \frac{1}{i} \varepsilon_{ijk} {x_j } = i \varepsilon_{ijk} x_k :wink:
 
ah!
and why? :)
Because the indices j and k commute and changes the sign?
 
yup! :biggrin:

that's what ε does!​
 
thank you very much!
I arrived at the solution but I did not know :D
 
he he :biggrin:
 
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