Does there exist momentum-shift operator?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a momentum-shift operator in quantum mechanics, exploring whether an analog to the translation operator in position space exists in momentum space. Participants examine the implications of such an operator and question its absence in many quantum mechanics textbooks.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that there is a translation operator in position space represented by the equation involving the momentum operator.
  • Others propose that an analogous momentum shift operator exists, represented by an equation involving the position operator.
  • There is a suggestion that many quantum mechanics books do not mention the momentum shift operator, leading to questions about the completeness of the literature.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the claims regarding the absence of such discussions in textbooks, stating that many do address the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains competing views regarding the existence and acknowledgment of the momentum shift operator in quantum mechanics literature. There is no consensus on whether it is adequately covered in textbooks.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the implications of the proposed momentum shift operator or its relationship to existing operators in quantum mechanics.

PRB147
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As is well known there is translation operator in position space, such that.,
$$\exp(i\hat{p}a)x\exp(-i\hat{p}a)=x+a.$$
While in momentum space, can we have analog of the above mentioned translation operator? i.e., momentum shift operator?
$$\exp(-i\hat{x}q)p\exp(i\hat{x}q)=p+q.$$
If so, why many many quantum mechanics books never mention it?
 
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PRB147 said:
As is well known there is translation operator in position space
Yes, and this operator is the momentum operator.

PRB147 said:
While in momentum space, can we have analog of the above mentioned translation operator?
Yes, the translation operator in momentum space is the position operator.

PRB147 said:
If so, why many many quantum mechanics books never mention it?
I don't know what QM books you've read, but there are plenty that do mention the above.
 
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Btw, @PRB147, there is no need to use both double dollar signs and tex tags; just one will do. I have used magic mentor powers to fix your OP to remove the unnecessary tags.
 
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PeterDonis said:
Yes, and this operator is the momentum operator.Yes, the translation operator in momentum space is the position operator.I don't know what QM books you've read, but there are plenty that do mention the above.
Thank you very much for your reply.
 

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