Is a projection operator hermitian?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the properties of projection operators, specifically whether a projection operator is hermitian. The context involves theoretical considerations from quantum mechanics and representations in Lie algebras.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant references a theorem from a text on Lie algebras, questioning if the derived relationship implies that the projection operator P is hermitian.
  • Another participant suggests that the assumption of P being hermitian is necessary, arguing that in quantum mechanics, a hermitian operator must have real eigenvalues, which aligns with the properties of projection operators.
  • Another participant asserts that all projection operators are hermitian, prompting a suggestion to review the properties of such operators.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the nature of the projection operator's hermiticity, as some participants assert it is hermitian while others question the assumptions leading to that conclusion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding the definitions of hermitian operators or the specific context in which projection operators are being considered.

krishna mohan
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I was reading Lie Algebras in Physics by Georgi......second edition...

Theorem 1.2: He proves that every finite group is completely reducible.

He takes

[tex]PD(g)P=D(g)P[/tex]


..takes adjoint...and gets..

[tex]P{D(g)}{\dagger} P=P {D(g)}{\dagger}[/tex]

So..does this mean that the projection operator P is hermitian?
 
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krishna mohan said:
I was reading Lie Algebras in Physics by Georgi......second edition...

Theorem 1.2: He proves that every finite group is completely reducible.

He takes

[tex]PD(g)P=D(g)P[/tex]


..takes adjoint...and gets..

[tex]P{D(g)}{\dagger} P=P {D(g)}{\dagger}[/tex]

So..does this mean that the projection operator P is hermitian?

I think he is assuming P is Hermitian (as it must be; if you want to think of this in terms of QM, it leaves all states unchanged, so the eigenvalue associated with the operator is '1', a real number - any operator which outputs a real eigenvalue is Hermitian)
 
All projection operators are hermitian. You might want to review the properties of projection operators here.
 
Thanks a lot!:smile:
 

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