Determining uncertanity from the wave equation

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To determine uncertainty in position (Δx) and momentum (Δp) from the wave function, one must utilize the definitions involving the wave function itself. Δx is calculated using the formula Δx = √(<x²> - <x>²), where <x²> is derived from the wave function ψ. The discussion clarifies that the wave function is distinct from the wave equation, which is a differential equation. Understanding these concepts requires a foundational knowledge of quantum mechanics. The relationship between the wave function in position and momentum space is also emphasized, highlighting the inverse nature of their spread.
mc_i2020
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Hi!
How does one find out dx and dp from the wave equation?
Appreciate ur help:)
 
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the wavefunction in momentum space is the Fourier transform of the wavefunction in position space.
therefore if the wavefunction is spread out in momenta space it is more concentrated in position space and Vice versa
this is just the the property of a function and its Fourier transform.
 
yes I am aware of that but what i asked is how does one find the "uncertainity" in position and momentum FROM the wave eqn?
 
mc_i2020 said:
yes I am aware of that but what i asked is how does one find the "uncertainity" in position and momentum FROM the wave eqn?

I'm assuming you meant the wave function rather than the wave equation. Wave equation usually refers to the differential equation, while the wave function is a solution to the wave equation.

It is difficult to answer your question because you did not reveal what you already know. Have you taken basic QM before?

For example, to get the value for \Delta x from the wavefunction, you have to know the definition of it, which is

\Delta x = \sqrt{&lt;x^2&gt; - &lt;x&gt;^2}

where

&lt;x^2&gt; = &lt;\psi|x^2|\psi&gt;

etc, and \psi is the wave function.

So that's how you get \Delta x knowing the wavefunction. Similarly for the momentum.

Zz.
 
Time reversal invariant Hamiltonians must satisfy ##[H,\Theta]=0## where ##\Theta## is time reversal operator. However, in some texts (for example see Many-body Quantum Theory in Condensed Matter Physics an introduction, HENRIK BRUUS and KARSTEN FLENSBERG, Corrected version: 14 January 2016, section 7.1.4) the time reversal invariant condition is introduced as ##H=H^*##. How these two conditions are identical?

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