Does H(r) Equal Hψ(r) in Quantum Mechanics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between the Hamiltonian operator H(r) and the wave function Hψ(r) in quantum mechanics. The participant references the parity operator P, noting that Pψ(r) = ψ(-r) and H(r) = H(-r), which implies that H is invariant under parity transformations. A critical point raised is the distinction between operators and vectors, highlighting that H(r) as an operator cannot equal Hψ(r) as a vector. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of understanding the spectral properties of operators in Hilbert space.

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  • Familiarity with the concept of parity operators in quantum mechanics.
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andyc100
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Does [tex]H(\underline{r})=H\psi(\underline{r})[/tex] ?
 
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...in my textbook it says that [tex]P\psi(\underline{r})=\psi(\underline{-r})[/tex] where P is the parity operator.

and that [tex]H(\underline{r})=H(\underline{-r})[/tex]

Thus [tex]P\psi(\underline{r})=p\psi(\underline{r})[/tex] where p is the parity eigenvalue.

Im having difficulty getting to this myself. Could some one please show me how?
 
andyc100 said:
Does [tex]H(\underline{r})=H\psi(\underline{r})[/tex] ?

This makes no sense. In the lhs you have an operator and in the rhs you have a vector. Also, in you second post, the <conclusion> is actually an assumption. The assumption is that P is an operator in Hilbert space for which the spectral equation makes sense.
 

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