Functional integral (semiclassic formula)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of the propagator K(x,x') using the functional integral approach and the semiclassical WKB method. It establishes that the semiclassical propagator K_{WKB}(x,x') does not satisfy the Schrödinger equation directly but is related to the Hamilton-Jacobi equation. The WKB approximation serves as a first-order expansion in powers of ħ, where the zeroth order yields the Hamilton-Jacobi equation and the first order corresponds to the WKB approximation. Key references include works by Barut and Boujdaa.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of functional integrals in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the Schrödinger equation
  • Knowledge of the Hamilton-Jacobi equation
  • Basic concepts of the WKB approximation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Hamilton-Jacobi equation in classical mechanics
  • Explore the application of the WKB approximation in quantum mechanics
  • Review the functional integral formulation of quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the works of Barut and Boujdaa for deeper insights
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Quantum physicists, theoretical physicists, and students studying advanced quantum mechanics and semiclassical methods.

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If to calculate the propagator K(x,x') (vaccuum)for a theory so:

(i\hbar \frac{\partial}{\partial t}\Psi - H\Psi )K(x,x')=\delta (x-x') (1)

we use the functional integral approach:

K(x,x')=<0|e^{iS[x]/\hbar }|0>

my question is, let's suppose we use the semiclassical WKB approach to calculate K_{WKB} (x,x') my question is ¿does the classical propagator satisfies the Schöedinguer equation (1) or as an approximation i'd like to know if the semiclassical propagator satisfies a Hamilton-Jacobi type equation... thanks.
 
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the solution of Hamilton-Jacobi equation is the generators of the canonical transformations (such as the action (the phase) it self) you can see articles: Barut , another : Boujdaa
 
The WKB approximation is a first order expansion in powers of h-bar, so that's how it's related. To zeroth order, you obtain the Hamilton-Jacobi equation, and to first order I believe is where you get the WKB approximation, if I recall correctly.
 

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