How Can Dirac Notation Be Used to Determine Eigenvalues and Eigenfunctions?

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Dirac notation can be utilized to determine eigenvalues and eigenfunctions through the eigenvalue equation Au = pu, where u represents the eigenstate and p the eigenvalue. The discussion highlights that the eigenvalues identified are +1 and -1, with corresponding states derived from symmetry considerations. A request for a more systematic algebraic method to find eigenvalues and eigenfunctions, rather than relying solely on substitution, is expressed. Additionally, clarification is sought on expressing zero eigenvalue eigenstates using projection operators, noting that eigenvectors orthogonal to a given vector have an eigenvalue of zero. The complexities of relating these concepts to zero eigenstates remain a point of confusion.
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Homework Statement


I have the following question (see below)

Homework Equations


The eigenvalue equation is Au = pu where u denotes the eigenstate and p denotes the eigenvalue

The Attempt at a Solution


I think that the eigenvalues are +1 and - 1, and the states are (phi + Bphi) and (phi-Bphi)
however I got this by just substituting these in from the symmetry of the operator.

Is there are neat algebraic way to work out the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions as opposed to just substitution?

I am stuck on working out how to express the 0 eigenvalue eigenstates in terms of the projection operator as well ...

Thank you very much
 

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About the projection operator , I'm not very well versed in them but if |x> is an eigenvector of it's projection operator with an eigenvalue of 1 ,
|x> <x| |x> = |x>
and any vector orthogonal to the |x> shown above is an eigenvector with eigenvalue zero. Also if
|x> <x| |A> = |x> <|A>
then if A is our zero eigenstate it seems a little meaningless.
Not sure how this fits in with a 0 value eigenstate though.
Sorry if I'm wrong.
 

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