Evaluating [d^2/dx^2, x] on an f(x)

  • Thread starter Thread starter Lane
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the commutator of the second derivative operator and the position operator applied to an arbitrary function f(x). This falls within the subject area of quantum mechanics and operator algebra.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss applying the operators to an arbitrary function and consider the implications of the resulting expressions. There is a focus on the differentiation of products and the resulting terms.

Discussion Status

Some participants express confidence in their evaluations, while others seek confirmation of the results. There appears to be a general agreement on the correctness of the evaluation, though no formal consensus is reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of evaluating the commutator without providing a complete solution, focusing instead on the process and reasoning involved.

Lane
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
1. Evaluate the commutator [d^2/dx^2, x] by applying the operators to an arbitrary function f(x).
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org


That's (x*f(x))''-x*f'''(x), isn't it? What's the result?
 


I just found the answer it is: 2 d/dx
 


I believe that's correct. Wasn't so hard, was it?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
0
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K