Do i need to calculate the expectation value of the Hamiltonian?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the generalized Ehrenfest Theorem in quantum mechanics, specifically in calculating the time derivatives of expectation values for spin operators and . Participants are exploring the implications of the theorem and the necessity of calculating the expectation value of the Hamiltonian operator.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to compute the expectation value of the Hamiltonian in the context of the Ehrenfest theorem. There are questions about whether to use previously calculated values or given values for Sx and the Hamiltonian. Some participants express uncertainty about the commutation of operators and the implications for the time derivative of .

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and questioning each other's reasoning. Some guidance has been offered regarding the computation of the expectation value of the commutator, and there is an ongoing exploration of the implications of the theorem in relation to the calculated expectation values.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information available for discussion. There is a focus on the definitions and properties of operators involved in the problem.

  • #31
Zero1010 said:
I wasn't to sure about that. Any suggestions?
Look up the definition of the expected value ##\langle \hat X \rangle##.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Zero1010
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Ok thanks
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
3K