Measuring Spin of Electrons Along X, Y & Z Axes

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the measurement of electron spin along the X, Y, and Z axes using quantum mechanics principles. Key equations include σx|u>=|d>, σy|u>=i|d>, and σz|u>=|u>, which describe the behavior of spin states under measurement. The conversation highlights the concept of superposition, where states |u> and |d> can be expressed as combinations of eigenstates |+x> and |-x>. The participants emphasize the importance of understanding these relationships to grasp the physical implications of spin measurements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of spin operators (σx, σy, σz)
  • Familiarity with state vectors and superposition
  • Knowledge of normalization in quantum states
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical representation of quantum states in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the implications of measurement in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the concept of eigenstates and eigenvalues in quantum systems
  • Investigate the role of superposition in quantum computing
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Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, physicists studying particle behavior, and anyone interested in the principles of quantum computing and measurement theory.

nurrifat
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σx|x>=+|x>
σx|-x>=-|-x>

These equations also follows for σy and σz corresponds states |y> and |z>.
if we measure along axis X then X state vector let it go which means up spin and opposite not go through which means down spin.

and also same for y and z axis.

But,
σx|u>=|d> σx|d>=|u>

σy|u>=i|d> σy|d>=-i|u>

σz|u>=|u> σz|d>=-|d>

these 3 equations can't make any sense to me. i can't draw any physical meaning to these equations.

here 1st equation shows if up spin electron goes through along X axis then after measurement spin wilbe down.but this up electron has to be up for any specific axis??right?? without axis up down is unmeaningfull.isn't it??
 
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nurrifat said:
if we measure along axis X then X state vector let it go which means up spin and opposite not go through which means down spin.
opps mayb i complexed the sentence

if we measure along axis X and then if state X goes through it shows electron spin up and if not go then it means electron spin is down.
 
It seems to me the u and d states are superpositions of the eigenstates of the spin operators. For example, for the first equation one you could say
\left|u \right\rangle = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|+x \right\rangle + \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|-x \right\rangle
\left|d \right\rangle = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|+x \right\rangle - \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|-x \right\rangle

and the equation is okay. Furthermore, I'd just change my labels like so (because what I name each axis is arbitrary)
x → z

u → +x

d → -x

So it looks like the expression you may have see in your textbook.

\left|+x \right\rangle = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|+z \right\rangle + \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|-z \right\rangle
\left|-x \right\rangle = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|+z \right\rangle - \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left|-z \right\rangle

Try to see if you can find a superposition of eigenstates that work for the others to make sure you understand. Remember to make sure the states are normalized.
 

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