Quantum Physics: Fourier transform of a function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the Fourier transform of the function \( e^{iax} \psi(x) \) given that \( \phi(k) \) is the Fourier transform of \( \psi(x) \). The correct formulation for the Fourier transform is established as \( \tilde{\phi_2}(k) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{\psi(x) e^{iax} e^{-ikx} dx} \). An algebraic error was identified in the initial attempt, specifically in the manipulation of exponential terms. The physical interpretation of this result relates to the modulation of the function \( \psi(x) \) by the complex exponential \( e^{iax} \).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier transforms, specifically the equation \( \tilde{f}(k) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{f(x) e^{-ikx} dx} \)
  • Familiarity with complex exponentials and their properties
  • Basic knowledge of algebraic manipulation of exponential functions
  • Concept of physical interpretation of mathematical results in quantum physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Fourier transforms in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the implications of modulation in wave functions
  • Explore the physical significance of complex exponentials in quantum states
  • Investigate common algebraic errors in Fourier transform calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in quantum physics, particularly those studying wave functions and Fourier analysis, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to Fourier transforms and their applications in physics.

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Homework Statement


Let [tex]\phi (k)[/tex] be the Fourier transform of the function [tex]\psi (x)[/tex]. Determine the Fourier transform of [tex]e^{iax} \psi (x)[/tex] and discuss the physical interpretation of this result.

Homework Equations


(1) [tex]\tilde{f} (k) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{f (x) e^{-ikx} dx}[/tex]
(2) [tex]\psi (x,0)=\int{\phi(k)e^{ikx}dk}[/tex] (might be needed)

The Attempt at a Solution


We know that: [tex]\phi (k) = \tilde{\psi} (x) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{\psi (x) e^{-ikx} dx}[/tex] (eq. 1)

I'll let [tex]\tilde{\phi_2} (k)[/tex] be the Fourier transform of [tex]e^{iax} \psi (x)[/tex]

[tex]\tilde{\phi_2} (k) = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{\psi (x) e^{iax} e^{-ikx} dx} = \frac{e^{a/k}}{\sqrt{2 \pi}} \int{\psi (x) dx}[/tex]

Can I do anything more? How's the result interesting?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
You made an algebraic error: eae-b ≠ ea/b. Fix that and try again.
 

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