Quick question about notation for normalisation

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter tomothy
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Normalisation Notation
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the formal mathematical expression of the normalization condition for a quantum state, specifically represented as 1 = ∫_R |ψ|² dτ. The participant notes that using τ to denote a volume integral is unconventional, suggesting that V or d³r is more standard. This discrepancy may stem from using an outdated textbook from 18 years ago. The conversation highlights the importance of adhering to contemporary notation in quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics and wave functions
  • Familiarity with mathematical notation in physics
  • Knowledge of volume integrals and their representations
  • Awareness of historical context in scientific literature
NEXT STEPS
  • Research contemporary notation in quantum mechanics textbooks
  • Learn about the significance of normalization in quantum states
  • Explore the differences between volume integrals and time integrals
  • Investigate the evolution of notation in physics over the past two decades
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists, and educators seeking clarity on mathematical notation and normalization conditions in quantum theory.

tomothy
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
Just a quick question, I'm looking to express the normalisation condition formally mathematically, is this acceptable:

1=\int_R|\psi|^2 \ \mathrm{d}\tau

For a particle in 3 dimensional region R.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Tau is rarely used to denote a volume integral, I think V or d^3r is a lot more standard. Tau is usually reserved for the proper time (or some characteristic time).
 
I think I've been using a textbook from about 18 years ago, so this could explain why. Thank you. (:
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 59 ·
2
Replies
59
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 82 ·
3
Replies
82
Views
10K