Deriving the needed wavefunction transformation for gauge symmetry?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the wavefunction transformation for gauge symmetry in the context of the Schrödinger equation. The specific gauge transformations discussed are \( A \rightarrow A + \nabla F \) and \( \phi \rightarrow \phi - \frac{\partial F}{\partial t} \). The challenge lies in determining the transformation for the wavefunction \( \Psi \) that corresponds to these changes in the vector potential \( A \) and scalar potential \( \phi \). The discussion emphasizes the need to derive the operator for \( \Psi \rightarrow \Psi' \) to ensure that the transformed wavefunction satisfies the Schrödinger equation with the modified potentials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Schrödinger equation for quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with gauge transformations in electromagnetism
  • Knowledge of vector calculus, specifically the gradient operator
  • Basic concepts of wavefunction behavior under transformations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study gauge transformations in quantum mechanics and their implications
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of wavefunction transformations
  • Explore the role of the vector potential \( A \) and scalar potential \( \phi \) in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the relationship between gauge symmetry and conservation laws in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists working on gauge theories, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of wavefunction transformations in the context of gauge symmetry.

quarky2001
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Homework Statement


Take the Schrödinger equation for a point particle in a field:

[tex]i\hbar \frac{\partial \Psi}{\partial t} = \frac{1}{2m}(-i\hbar\nabla - q\vec{A})^2\Psi + q\phi\Psi[/tex]

I'm supposed to determine what the transformation for Psi is that corresponds to the gauge transformation [itex]A\rightarrow A +\nabla F[/itex] and [itex]\phi \rightarrow \phi - \frac{\partial F}{\partial t}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I know what the transformation should be, since these transformations are actually derived the other way around in most textbooks, but I have no idea how to work from these transformations to get the necessary operator for [itex]\Psi \rightarrow \Psi\prime[/itex].
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Assume you have a function psi that satisfies the Schrödinger equation with the un-transformed A, phi, then ask what psi' needs to be to satisfy the Schrödinger equation with the transformed A', phi'.
 

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