How to Find Eigenfunctions of Lx for a Hydrogen Atom in a Specific State?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the eigenfunctions of the angular momentum operator Lx for a hydrogen atom in the state Φ=aY_11+bY_20, where a^2+b^2=1. The initial approach involves constructing an 8-order matrix using matrix mechanics and the Time-independent Schrödinger Equation, specifically (Lx)mn ψ=Lx ψ, to determine the eigenvector |ψn〉. Participants suggest that while this method is valid, it is cumbersome, and recommend considering the transformation of spherical harmonics under rotations as an alternative approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum operators in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with spherical harmonics and their properties
  • Knowledge of matrix mechanics and eigenvalue problems
  • Proficiency in the Time-independent Schrödinger Equation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the transformation properties of spherical harmonics under rotations
  • Learn about the matrix representation of angular momentum operators
  • Explore simplified methods for solving eigenvalue problems in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the implications of the eigenvalue equation of Lx in quantum systems
USEFUL FOR

Quantum mechanics students, physicists working on angular momentum problems, and researchers exploring hydrogen atom states will benefit from this discussion.

wengsee
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The system is at the state of Φ=aY_11+bY_20 (a^2+b^2=1),please find the possible eigenfunctions of Lx and the relevant possibilities?
My solution: I have attempted to use the matrix mechanics to work out the exercise,but I should work out a 8-order matrix.
Firstly I use the Fmn=〈m︳F|n〉to work out the matrix Lx in the Hilbert space of Lz or
L^2,then use the Time-independent Schrödinger Equation ,namely (Lx)mn ψ=Lx ψ ,to work out its eigenvector|ψn〉.At last ,I use the 〈Φ︳ψn〉,we can figure out probability of the related eigenvalue.I have tried to solute it in this way ,but in the process ,we should work out a 8-order matrix .It is too difficult to deal with it .
Are there someone have easier way to solute the question?
 
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wengsee said:
The system is at the state of Φ=aY_11+bY_20 (a^2+b^2=1), please find the possible eigenfunctions of Lx and the relevant possibilities?
My solution: I have attempted to use the matrix mechanics to work out the exercise,but I should work out a 8-order matrix.
Firstly I use the Fmn=〈m︳F|n〉to work out the matrix Lx in the Hilbert space of Lz or L^2, then use the Time-independent Schrödinger Equation, namely (Lx)mn ψ=Lx ψ, to work out its eigenvector |ψn〉.
You have the right equation, but that's not the Schrödinger equation.
At last, I use the 〈Φ︳ψn〉, we can figure out probability of the related eigenvalue. I have tried to solute it in this way, but in the process, we should work out a 8-order matrix. It is too difficult to deal with it.
Are there someone have easier way to solute the question?
Your approach will work, though, as you found out, it seems rather unwieldy. One thing you can do is treat the l=1 and l=2 cases separately.

Another approach might be to consider how the spherical harmonics transform under rotations.
 
Yes,The equation is just the eigenvalue equation of Lx.
As you say ,the another approach is" consider how the spherical harmonics transform under rotations. ".But in my opinion,it is not so easy to do as you expected.
 

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