Is the Expectation Value of the y-Component of Spin Represented by Sy?

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The discussion centers on the interpretation of the expectation value of the y-component of electron spin, specifically in the context of an eigenstate of Sx. The original poster believes the expectation value should be calculated using the y-component spin operator, Sy, but the provided solutions incorrectly reference the z-direction spin operator. A participant suggests that the discrepancy may simply be a typo in the solutions. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly identifying the spin operators when calculating expectation values in quantum mechanics. Clarification on this point is essential for accurate problem-solving in quantum physics.
Sekonda
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Hey,

I'm having trouble interpreting a question, as the solutions say something different... Anyways the question part d) below:

expectation.png


So we want to determine the expectation value of the y-component of the electron spin on the eigenstate of Sx, now I would of thought this was given by:

<\uparrow_{x}|\hat{S}_{y}|\uparrow_{x}>

However in my solutions it uses the Spin operator in the z-direction instead, I'm note exactly sure what it means by the y-component of the electron spin though I'd of thought this y-component would of been represented by the Spin operator referring to the y components i.e. Sy.

Can someone confirm this? OR tell me why I'm wrong!

Thanks,
SK
 
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You're right. It's probably just a typo in the solutions.
 

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