Info on wave mechanics prob in one dimension need

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around solving wave mechanics problems in one dimension, specifically using induction to demonstrate the commutation relation between position operator \( \hat{x} \) and momentum operator \( \hat{p}_x \). The equation presented is \( [ \hat{x}^n, \hat{p}_x ] = i \hbar n \hat{x}^{n-1} \). Additionally, the user seeks clarification on the infinitesimal translation operator \( \hat{T} \) and its relation to Dirac delta functions in quantum mechanics. The responses emphasize the importance of verifying the induction hypothesis and clarifying the use of Dirac delta functions in the context of the translation operator.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically operator algebra
  • Familiarity with commutation relations in quantum mechanics
  • Knowledge of induction proofs in mathematical contexts
  • Basic concepts of Dirac notation and infinitesimal transformations
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  • Study the proof of commutation relations in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about induction proofs in mathematical physics
  • Research the properties and applications of the Dirac delta function
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Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on operator theory and wave mechanics. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of commutation relations and infinitesimal transformations in quantum systems.

belleamie
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Hi there, i need help in a couple of questions that I'm just stumped
one of them :
A) use induction to show that
[ x (hat)^n, p(hat) sub "x" ] = i (hbar)n x(hat)^(n-1)

- so far I've figured out this equation is in relation to solve the above eq, but I'm not entirely sure how to connect the two
[ f (x (hat)), p(hat) sub "x"] = i h(bar) (partial F/ partial x) * (x (hat))

B) I'm not sure how to show the symbol "pitch fork" but i will refer to it as "tsi"

Show for infinitesimal translation for
|tsi> --> |tsi'> =T(hat) (dirac delta x)|tsi>
that <x> ---> <x> + dirac delta x and
< P (as in momentum) sub x > ----> < P subx >

SO far I have gotten {T is for hte translator)
<tsi| T(hat with dagger) (diarc delta x) x T hat (diarc delta x)| tsi>
= <tsi| (1+(idelta sub x P hat sub x/ hbar) x hat (1- i diarc delta x P sub x /hbar) |tsi>

I don't know where to go from there tho...
 
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For part A, have you written out your induction hypothesis and verified that the first case is satisfied? Once you've done this, you might try multiplying both sides by x (from the left) and seeing what you can do. As for the formula you have given, I wouldn't think you could use that since its basically what you're trying to prove. If you can use it, you might want to look at the special case where f is a power of x.

For part B, you're post seems somewhat confusing. Why do you have dirac delta functions in your equation [tex]|\psi'\rangle = \hat{T} |\psi \rangle[/tex]? As I read it now, it looks somewhat nonsensical. Could you check the problem again and then try to be a little more clear about what you're trying to do?
 

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