Quantum Mechanics expectation value problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the expectation value of the spin operator Sx for an electron in a specific spin state represented in the Sz basis. The spin state is given as |ψ> = A (1-2i, 2)T, where A is determined to be 1/3. The values of Sx are identified as ±ħ/2, and the discussion seeks to clarify the corresponding probabilities and the matrix representation of Sx in the z-basis, including its eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically spin states and operators.
  • Familiarity with the concept of expectation values in quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of matrix representations of quantum operators.
  • Basic proficiency in linear algebra, particularly with 2x1 matrices and eigenvalues.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the matrix representation of the spin operator Sx in the z-basis.
  • Study the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the Sx operator.
  • Learn how to calculate probabilities from quantum state projections.
  • Explore the implications of measuring spin states in quantum mechanics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists working with spin systems, and anyone involved in quantum state analysis will benefit from this discussion.

rockstar101
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Homework Statement



An electron is in the spin state in the Sz representation

|ψ> = A (1-2i 2)T <- this is a 2 X 1 matrix

If Sx is measured, what values and probabilities do you get?
What is the expectation value of Sx?


Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



So first, I need to find what A equals to:

A^2 [ (1-2i)(1+2i)+ 4 ] = 1
thus A = 1/3

now, I need to know what values of Sx I would get and the probabilities to
proceed to find the expectation value.

What values of Sx would I get? could it be just +/- h-bar/2 ??
What would be the probabilities??

I would really appreciate any hint or help!
 
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rockstar101 said:

Homework Statement



An electron is in the spin state in the Sz representation

|ψ> = A (1-2i 2)T <- this is a 2 X 1 matrix


I assume you mean

[tex]|\psi\rangle=A\begin{pmatrix}1-2i&2\end{pmatrix}^T=A\begin{pmatrix}1-2i\\2\end{pmatrix}[/tex]

?

now, I need to know what values of Sx I would get and the probabilities to
proceed to find the expectation value.

What values of Sx would I get? could it be just +/- h-bar/2 ??
What would be the probabilities??

I would really appreciate any hint or help!

What is the matrix representation of [itex]S_x[/itex] in the z-basis? What are its eigenvalues and eigenvectors?
 

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