Operators: H(t1+t2) = Ht1+Ht2? | Harmitian?

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The discussion centers on the properties of operators, specifically whether H(t1+t2) equals Ht1 + Ht2, and the implications of Hermitian operators. It is established that H is a linear operator if it satisfies the equation H(t1+t2) = Ht1 + Ht2. Furthermore, it is confirmed that every Hermitian operator is linear and commutes with itself, leading to the conclusion that [H,H] = 0. The necessity of proving commutativity arises when the operator's nature (Hermitian or linear) is unknown.

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Cosmossos
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Hello,
Is it correct to say that H(t1+t2)=Ht1+Ht2? I think it's true but I can't say exacly why.
And also, is it true that Ht2*Ht1-Ht1*Ht2=0?
would the answer change if we know the operator is harmitian or not?
Do you have any idea where can I find a summary about operators ?

Thanks
 
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An operator which commutes under addition and subtraction is called a linear operator, i.e. H is linear iff

H(t1+t2)=Ht1+Ht2, and
H(ct)=c(Ht).

It can be shown that every Hermitian operator is linear and commutes with itself ( [H,H]=0 ).

If you don't know the operator is Hermitian, or linear, then the commutativity requires proof.

Search wolfram mathworld for more info, http://mathworld.wolfram.com/LinearOperator.html
 
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Are the t's vectors? Is H(t) supposed to be a time-dependent (Heisenberg picture) operator? If it's the latter, use A(t)=exp(iHt)A exp(-iHt).

I suggest you check out this book, but almost any book on QM or linear algebra will do.
 
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