Quantum theory of radiation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between the quantum harmonic oscillator and the modes of the radiation field as described by Dirac in his quantum theory of radiation. Participants explore theoretical connections and seek clarifications regarding this linkage.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about how the harmonic oscillator is related to the radiation field modes as explained by Dirac.
  • Another participant suggests a Wikipedia reference on quantum harmonic oscillators, indicating a potential resource for understanding the topic.
  • A third participant points to a specific equation in a document related to quantum field theory, noting its analogy to the harmonic oscillator's commutation relation.
  • A later post reiterates the initial confusion and recommends a book that discusses different forms of quantum mechanics, including the connection between annihilation and creation operators and the radiation field.
  • Additional resources are provided, including a link to a paper that may clarify the formulation related to the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reflects a lack of consensus, with participants offering various resources and perspectives without resolving the initial confusion about the harmonic oscillator's connection to the radiation field.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference different forms of quantum mechanics and suggest various resources, indicating that the understanding of the topic may depend on specific interpretations or formulations that are not universally agreed upon.

wasi-uz-zaman
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hi , i am not getting how harmonic oscillator is linked to the modes of radiation field- as explain by Dirac in his quantum theory of radiation.
 
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wasi-uz-zaman said:
hi , i am not getting how harmonic oscillator is linked to the modes of radiation field- as explain by Dirac in his quantum theory of radiation.

Get a hold of Quantum Field Theory for the Gifted Amateur:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/019969933X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

There are a number of different equivalent forms of QM. There is a form based on annihilation and creation operators, which is not that well known, that brings out this connection very clearly. The above reference explains it in detail.

Added Later

Check out:
http://math.bu.edu/people/mak/Styer Am J Phys 2002.pdf

See formulation 7

Thanks
Bill
 
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