How are operator valued distributions defined?

This is similar to the definition of real-valued or complex-valued distributions, but the difference is that it takes values in the set of linear operators on a Hilbert space, instead of just real or complex numbers. The exact definition can be found in Streater & Wightman's book on quantum field theory.
  • #1
jostpuur
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19
How precisely are operator valued distributions defined?
 
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  • #2
Isn't it defined exactly the same as a real-valued or complex-valued distribution, except that it takes values in the set of linear operators on a Hilbert space? See also posts #34 and #35 in this thread (option 2 only, since you convinced me option 1 doesn't work, as acknowledged in #43).

Hm, maybe I should have said "the set of bounded linear operators"...not sure about that.

There's probably an exact definition in Streater & Wightman. That's the first place I'd look for one.
 
  • #3
jostpuur said:
How precisely are operator valued distributions defined?
An operator valued distribution is a continuous linear map from the space of test functions to the space of operators over a Hilbert space. Quantum fields are operator valued distributions which have a Fourier transform.
 

1. What is an operator valued distribution?

An operator valued distribution is a mathematical object that combines the concepts of an operator and a distribution. It is a generalization of a usual distribution, which is a linear functional on a space of test functions. In an operator valued distribution, the linear functional is replaced by a linear operator, which acts on a space of test operators.

2. How is an operator valued distribution different from a usual distribution?

An operator valued distribution differs from a usual distribution in that it can act on more general spaces, such as spaces of test operators, rather than just test functions. This allows for a wider range of applications and allows for the consideration of more complex mathematical objects.

3. What are some applications of operator valued distributions?

Operator valued distributions have a wide range of applications in mathematics and physics. They are commonly used in quantum field theory, functional analysis, and stochastic processes. They also have applications in signal processing, image processing, and machine learning.

4. How are operator valued distributions defined?

Operator valued distributions are typically defined as linear functionals on a space of test operators, which are themselves linear operators on a space of test functions. They can also be defined as a sequence of operators acting on a sequence of test functions, with certain convergence properties.

5. Are operator valued distributions used in practical applications?

Yes, operator valued distributions are used in a variety of practical applications, particularly in mathematical and physical modeling. They are also used in engineering and computer science, particularly in fields that deal with complex systems and data.

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