I Does there exist momentum-shift operator?

  • Thread starter Thread starter PRB147
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Operator
Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the existence of a momentum-shift operator analogous to the translation operator in position space. It is established that the momentum operator serves this purpose in momentum space, while the position operator functions as the translation operator. Participants express confusion over why many quantum mechanics texts do not address this topic, with some asserting that numerous books do indeed cover it. The conversation also touches on formatting preferences for mathematical expressions. Overall, the existence and roles of these operators in quantum mechanics are affirmed.
PRB147
Messages
122
Reaction score
0
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?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
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.
 
  • Like
Likes vanhees71, topsquark and PRB147
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.
 
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.
 
I am slowly going through the book 'What Is a Quantum Field Theory?' by Michel Talagrand. I came across the following quote: One does not" prove” the basic principles of Quantum Mechanics. The ultimate test for a model is the agreement of its predictions with experiments. Although it may seem trite, it does fit in with my modelling view of QM. The more I think about it, the more I believe it could be saying something quite profound. For example, precisely what is the justification of...

Similar threads

Replies
32
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 56 ·
2
Replies
56
Views
5K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
860
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
596
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K