Momentum operator of the quantized real Klein-Gordon field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the momentum operator of the quantized real Klein-Gordon field, specifically the expression P = ∫∫∫ d^3x (1/c^2) ∂/∂t ψ(x) ∇ψ(x), where ψ(x) = ψ+(x) + ψ-(x). The user successfully calculates the infinite momentum constant but fails to derive the number operator term for bosons, which should be P = ∑_k ℏk (a+(k) a(k) + 1/2). The issue arises from the appearance of mixed terms involving both creation and annihilation operators, which vanish due to the commutation relation [a(k), a+(k')] = δ_kk'. The reference for further understanding is Mandl and Shaw's "Quantum Field Theory".

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum field theory concepts, particularly the Klein-Gordon field.
  • Familiarity with operator algebra, specifically creation and annihilation operators.
  • Knowledge of commutation relations in quantum mechanics.
  • Basic understanding of Lorentz transformations and four-vectors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the momentum operator in quantum field theory.
  • Review the commutation relations for bosonic operators in detail.
  • Examine the role of the number operator in quantum mechanics.
  • Read Mandl and Shaw's "Quantum Field Theory" focusing on pages 40 and 41 for context.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum field theory, particularly those working with the Klein-Gordon field and bosonic operators, will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


a+(k) creates particle with wave number vector k, a(k) annihilates the same; then the Klein-Gordon field operators are defined as ψ+(x) = ∑_k f(k) a(k) e^-ikx and ψ-(x) = ∑_k f(k) a+(k) e^ikx; the factor f contains constants and the ω(k). x is a Lorentz four vector, k is a 3-vector except in the exponential where it is also a four vector.


Homework Equations


The momentum operator is defined as P = ∫∫∫ d^3x 1/c^2 ∂/∂t ψ(x) ∇ψ(x) where ψ(x) = ψ+(x) + ψ-(x).
Commutation relation is [a(k),a+(k')] = δ_kk'


The Attempt at a Solution


Upon straightforward calculation of the derivatives and insertion into the expression for the momentum operator I get the correct constant term for the infinite momentum, but not the number operator term for bosons. The result should be P = ∑_k hbar k ( a+(k) a(k) +1/2). I get the second but not the first term. The problem is that two terms appear in which I have a pair of creators and a pair of annihilators, respectively, but the mixed term vanishes after using the commutation relation. What am I missing? The problem is to be found on pages 40 and 41 of Mandl and Shaw, Quantum Field Theory. Thanks a lot for any kind of hint.
 
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Could you post your exact calculation?
 

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