Operator in exponential function and generating function

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the Hamiltonian operator in quantum mechanics, specifically regarding the relationship between the Hamiltonian \( H \) and an observable \( A \) when they commute, denoted as \([A,H] = 0\). The eigenket \(|a'\rangle\) of \( A \) satisfies the equation \( H|a'\rangle = E_{a'}|a'\rangle \), leading to the conclusion that \( \exp(-iHt/\hbar)|a'\rangle = \exp(-iE_{a'}t/\hbar)|a'\rangle \). The generating function for infinitesimal translations is defined as \( F(x,P) = x \cdot P + p \cdot dx \), which can be understood through the expansion of the exponential operator using Taylor series.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly operator algebra.
  • Familiarity with Hamiltonian mechanics and eigenstates.
  • Knowledge of Taylor series and exponential functions in mathematical physics.
  • Basic grasp of generating functions in classical mechanics.
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  • Study the implications of the commutation relation \([A,H] = 0\) in quantum mechanics.
  • Learn about the role of the Hamiltonian operator in quantum state evolution.
  • Explore the derivation and applications of generating functions in classical mechanics.
  • Investigate the use of Taylor series in quantum mechanics, particularly in operator expansions.
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Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, physicists focusing on operator theory, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of quantum state evolution and generating functions.

ChrisLM
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J.J. Sakurai Modern Quantum Mechanics p. 74
It says,
[A,H] = 0;
H|a'> = Ea' |a'>
where H is the Hamiltonian A is any observable |a'> is eigenket of A

then,

exp ( -iHt/h)|a'> = exp (-iEa't/h)|a'>

where h is the reduced Planck's constant.
I want to know WHY ?
and besides, I would like to ask what is generating function means?
I have encountered
xnew= x + dx
pnew = p
then generating function for infinitesimal translation is
F(x,P) = x · P + p · dx
How can I understand it ?

Thank You ! I wish this time is readily to read !
 
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ChrisLM said:
J.J. Sakurai Modern Quantum Mechanics p. 74
It says,
[A,H] = 0;
H|a'> = Ea' |a'>
where H is the Hamiltonian A is any observable |a'> is eigenket of A

then,

exp ( -iHt/h)|a'> = exp (-iEa't/h)|a'>

where h is the reduced Planck's constant.
I want to know WHY ?

You can use the definition:

[tex]e^{-iHt/h} = \sum_{n = 0}^\infty \frac{1}{n!} \left( -\frac{i}{h} H t \right)^n[/tex]
Now t and i/h are numbers, so
[tex]\left( -\frac{i}{h} H t \right)^n = \left( -\frac{i}{h} t \right)^n H^n[/tex]
and you can easily show that
[tex]H^n |a'\rangle = E_{a'}^n |a'\rangle[/tex]
to get
[tex]\sum_{n = 0}^\infty \frac{1}{n!} \left( -\frac{i}{h} E_{a'} t \right)^n = e^{-i E_{a'} t / h}[/tex]
 

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