How Do You Apply the Raising Operator to Find Y^{2}_{2}(\theta, \phi)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the raising operator to spherical harmonics, specifically in finding \( Y^{2}_{2}(\theta, \phi) \) from \( Y^{1}_{2}(\theta, \phi) \). The context is rooted in quantum mechanics and involves normalization using a specific equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about the normalization process referenced in Equation 4.121 and its relevance to the raising operator. There are attempts to apply the raising operator, with some participants questioning the constants involved and the implications of eigenstate properties.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between the raising operator and the spherical harmonics, with some participants suggesting that Equation 4.121 is crucial for determining the constant generated during this operation. Multiple interpretations of the normalization process and the application of the raising operator are being discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of clarity regarding the normalization process and how it relates to the raising operator, indicating potential gaps in understanding the underlying principles. There is also mention of previous discussions in the chapter that may not directly apply to the current problem.

Rahmuss
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Homework Statement


In Problem 4.3 you showed that

[tex]Y^{1}_{2}(\theta , \phi) = -\sqrt{15/8\pi} sin\theta cos\theta e^{i\phi}[/tex]

Apply the raising operator to find [tex]Y^{2}_{2}(\theta , \phi)[/tex]. Use Equation 4.121 to get the normalization.


Homework Equations



[Eq. 4.121] [tex]A^{m}_{l} = \hbar \sqrt{l(l + 1) - m(m \pm 1)} = \hbar \sqrt{(l \mp m)(l \pm m +1)}[/tex].


The Attempt at a Solution



So, I think my problem, in part, is that I don't know what they mean when they say "Use Equation 4.121 to get the normalization." So, with that in mind I did try something; but it seems too simple:

[tex]L_{+} Y^{1}_{2}(\theta , \phi) = \epsilon \sqrt{\frac{(2l + 1)(l - |(m+1)|)\fact}{4\pi(l + |(m+1)|)\fact}} e^{i(m+1)\phi} P^{(m+1)}_{l}(x)[/tex]

So, everywhere I have just [tex]m[/tex], I add one to it, which really just gives me the formula for [tex]Y^{2}_{2}[/tex]. Then solving it is simple. So I must not be understanding the question properly. And I don't see what equation 4.121 has to do with anything. I'm used to noramlization being something like:

[tex]1 = \int^{\infty}_{-\infty}|\psi|^{2} dx[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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Rahmuss said:

Homework Statement


In Problem 4.3 you showed that

[tex]Y^{1}_{2}(\theta , \phi) = -\sqrt{15/8\pi} sin\theta cos\theta e^{i\phi}[/tex]

Apply the raising operator to find [tex]Y^{2}_{2}(\theta , \phi)[/tex]. Use Equation 4.121 to get the normalization.


Homework Equations



[Eq. 4.121] [tex]A^{m}_{l} = \hbar \sqrt{l(l + 1) - m(m \pm 1)} = \hbar \sqrt{(l \mp m)(l \pm m +1)}[/tex].


The Attempt at a Solution



So, I think my problem, in part, is that I don't know what they mean when they say "Use Equation 4.121 to get the normalization." So, with that in mind I did try something; but it seems too simple:

[tex]L_{+} Y^{1}_{2}(\theta , \phi) = \epsilon \sqrt{\frac{(2l + 1)(l - |(m+1)|)\fact}{4\pi(l + |(m+1)|)\fact}} e^{i(m+1)\phi} P^{(m+1)}_{l}(x)[/tex]

So, everywhere I have just [tex]m[/tex], I add one to it, which really just gives me the formula for [tex]Y^{2}_{2}[/tex]. Then solving it is simple. So I must not be understanding the question properly. And I don't see what equation 4.121 has to do with anything. I'm used to noramlization being something like:

[tex]1 = \int^{\infty}_{-\infty}|\psi|^{2} dx[/tex]

First step:

[itex]L_+ Y^1_2[/itex] is equal to what? It's equal to some constant times [itex]Y_2^2[/itex], right? What is that constant?
 
You mean the whole:

[tex]\hat{Q}f(x) = qf(x)[/tex]

If that's what you mean, then I guess it would just be:

[tex]L_{+}Y^{1}_{2} = lY^{2}_{2}[/tex]

? Is that right?
Earlier on the chapter discusses

[tex]L^{2}f_{t} = \lambda f_{t}[/tex]

But it doesn't apply the [tex]L_{+}[/tex] operator.
 
Last edited:
Rahmuss said:
You mean the whole:

[tex]\hat{Q}f(x) = qf(x)[/tex]

If that's what you mean, then I guess it would just be:

[tex]L_{+}Y^{1}_{2} = lY^{2}_{2}[/tex]

? Is that right?
Earlier on the chapter discusses

[tex]L^{2}f_{t} = \lambda f_{t}[/tex]

But it doesn't apply the [tex]L_{+}[/tex] operator.

Of course, Y^1_2 is NOT an eigenstate of L_+ so you can't use the eigenvalue equation.

What I mean is : use equation 4.121 to figure out the constant! That's what 4.121 is for! To figure out the constant generated when applying the raising or lowering operators!
 
Ah, ok. I understand (I hope).

So, with Eq. 4.121 goes to:

[tex]A^{2}_{2} = \hbar \sqrt{2(2+1) - 2(2\mp 1}[/tex] ---->

[tex]A^{2}_{2} = \hbar \sqrt{6 - 2} = 2\hbar[/tex]

The other leads to zero, so I guess I can throw that out.

So, if I understood correctly the first step is done?

[tex]L_{+} Y^{1}_{2} = 2\hbar Y^{2}_{2}[/tex] ?

Or do I just say:

[tex]\frac{L_{+} Y^{1}_{2}}{2\hbar} = Y^{2}_{2}[/tex]
 

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