Propagator Equation at t=0 Explained

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In summary, the equation for the propagator at t = 0 is K(x',x;0,0) = \sum_m \psi_n(x')\psi_n(x) and both x and x' represent positions with t and t' being continuously varying parameters. The Dirac delta distribution is used to calculate the probability amplitude for a particle at x' to also be at x.
  • #1
ehrenfest
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I understand the progator in general but could someone explain this equation for the propagator at t = 0 for me:

[tex]\delta(x' - x) = K(x',x;0,0) = \sum_m \psi_n(x')\psi_n(x)[/tex]

?

I am confused about the dfiference between x' and x. It seems like the Kronecker would make more sense than Dirac here?
 
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  • #2
x is continuous.
 
  • #3
Gokul43201 said:
x is continuous.
And x' is discrete? What do they represent?
 
  • #4
No, x and x' are both positions. They (and t, t') are continuously varying parameters; hence the Dirac delta.

The propagator K(x,x';t-t') is the amplitude for a particle initially at (x',t') to be observed at (x,t). With t=t', this is the probability amplitude that a particle at x' is also at x, which is given by the Dirac delta distribution.
 
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1. What is the propagator equation at t=0?

The propagator equation at t=0 is a mathematical expression that describes the evolution of a system from an initial state to a final state at a specific time, t=0. It is used in quantum mechanics to calculate the probability amplitude of a particle transitioning from one state to another.

2. Why is the propagator equation at t=0 important?

The propagator equation at t=0 is important because it allows scientists to calculate the probability of a particle being in a certain state at a specific time. This is crucial in understanding the behavior of particles and predicting their future states.

3. How is the propagator equation at t=0 derived?

The propagator equation at t=0 is derived from the Schrödinger equation, which describes the time evolution of a quantum system. It is a complex mathematical equation that involves the Hamiltonian operator, which represents the total energy of the system, and the wavefunction, which describes the state of the system.

4. What are the applications of the propagator equation at t=0?

The propagator equation at t=0 has many applications in quantum mechanics, including calculating the probability of a particle being in a certain state, predicting the behavior of particles in a given system, and understanding the properties of complex systems such as atoms and molecules.

5. Can the propagator equation at t=0 be used in other fields of science?

While the propagator equation at t=0 is primarily used in quantum mechanics, it has also been applied in other fields such as statistical mechanics, condensed matter physics, and nuclear physics. It is a powerful tool for understanding the behavior of particles and systems at the quantum level, and its applications continue to expand.

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