Non-canonical transformation, Shankar 2.8.5

In summary, the problem asks to compare the states of two particles released at (x=a,y=0) and (x=0,y=a) respectively with the same momenta and a non-canonical transformation applied. The solutions to the equations of motion in the two coordinate systems are different, showing that the states of the particles are not related by the same transformation at later times.
  • #1
naele
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Homework Statement


Suppose I release a particle at (x=a,y=0) with (p_x = b, p_y = 0) and you release one in the transformed state (x=0, y=a) with (p_x = b, p_y = 0) where the transformation is that we rotate the coordinates but not the momenta. This is a non canonical transformation that leaves H invariant. Show that at later times the states of the two particles are not related by the same transformation.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


This problem is a little awkward for me because of ambiguity. Consider a rotation of the coordinates given by
[tex]
x'=x\cos\theta-y\sin\theta,\qquad y'=x\sin\theta+y\cos\theta
[/tex]
My initial plan was to compare the solutions to the equations of motion in each coordinate system. In the unprimed system there's no motion in the y-axis due to the initial conditions setting y=0,p_y=0, that is [itex]x(t)=a\cos\omega t+\frac{b}{m\omega}\sin\omega t[/itex]. In the primed system using the initial conditions stated [itex]x'(t)=\frac{b}{m\omega}\sin\omega t, y'(t)=a\cos\omega t[/itex]

The question asks to show that at later times the two particles are not related by the same transformation, is it referring to the rotation applied to the coordinates and the transformation relating the two solutions?
 
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  • #2
If so, then I can say the solutions are not related by the same transformation since they have different equations, x(t) and x'(t) are not equal.
 

What is non-canonical transformation?

Non-canonical transformation is a mathematical technique used in physics to transform one set of variables into another set in order to simplify a problem or make it easier to solve. It is commonly used in quantum mechanics and classical mechanics.

What is the purpose of non-canonical transformation?

The purpose of non-canonical transformation is to simplify a problem or make it solvable by transforming the original variables into a new set of variables. This can make the problem more manageable or reveal hidden symmetries and relationships.

What are some examples of non-canonical transformations?

Examples of non-canonical transformations include the canonical transformation, which is a type of transformation that preserves the form of Hamilton's equations, and the Legendre transformation, which is used to transform between different representations of a Lagrangian system.

How is non-canonical transformation related to canonical transformation?

Non-canonical transformation is a broader term that encompasses all types of transformations, including canonical transformations. Canonical transformations are a specific type of non-canonical transformation that preserves the form of Hamilton's equations.

What is Shankar 2.8.5 in relation to non-canonical transformation?

Shankar 2.8.5 is a specific example of a non-canonical transformation in quantum mechanics. It is used to transform the Hamiltonian of a system into a new form that is easier to work with mathematically. This transformation is commonly used in the context of time-dependent perturbation theory.

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