- #1
Jimmy87
- 686
- 17
Hi,
I have come across two definitions of eigenstates (and eigenvalues), both of which I understand but I don't understand how the two are related:
1) An eigenstate is one where you get the original function back, usually with some multiple, which is called the eigenvalue.
2) An eigenstate is a state of a particle with a definite momentum or position. For example, in the single slit experiment monochromatic light is used. This light has a single wavelength (and colour) thus it has a definite momentum. Therefore, the photons have a momentum eigenstate.
I don't get how 1 and 2 can be the same?
Thanks,
I have come across two definitions of eigenstates (and eigenvalues), both of which I understand but I don't understand how the two are related:
1) An eigenstate is one where you get the original function back, usually with some multiple, which is called the eigenvalue.
2) An eigenstate is a state of a particle with a definite momentum or position. For example, in the single slit experiment monochromatic light is used. This light has a single wavelength (and colour) thus it has a definite momentum. Therefore, the photons have a momentum eigenstate.
I don't get how 1 and 2 can be the same?
Thanks,