Rules for transforming operators

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the transformation of operators in quantum mechanics, specifically focusing on the representation of operators in the position basis and the implications of different integral formulations. Participants explore the mathematical expressions involved and the definitions of various terms.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for a general operator in the position basis and questions the calculation of matrix elements.
  • Another participant provides an integral expression for the operator, suggesting an expansion in terms of eigenstates to aid understanding.
  • A third participant challenges the previous integral formulation, pointing out a discrepancy in the dimensionality of the integrals used.
  • A fourth participant emphasizes the importance of definitions and expresses uncertainty about the clarity of terms used in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct formulation of the integrals and the definitions of terms involved. There is no consensus on the proper approach or understanding of the operator transformations.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the definitions of terms and the dimensionality of the integrals, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

aaaa202
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The attached picture shows a representation of a general operator, which I found quite weird. The matrix elements are calculated in the position basis as far as I can tell, but I am not sure how. Do they do something like?

<klTlk'> = ∫ dx dx' <klx><xlTlx'><x'lk'>

In that case what happens to the double integral?
 

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<klTlk'> = ∫ dx dx' <klx><xlTlx'><x'lk'>

$$<k|T|k'>=\int \psi_k^\star(x) \hat T \psi_{k'}(x) dx$$

... then expand ##\psi_{k'}## in terms of the eigenstates of ##\hat T##.

It will probably help you understand the representation is you consider the case for only two particles (if I've read that correctly). You should also make explicit what each of the indexes mean ... the small number of articles will allow you to expand out the sums.
 
No I mean according to my calculation;

<klVlk'> = ∫∫dr dr' [itex]\psi[/itex]k(x) V(r,r') [itex]\psi[/itex]k'(x')

But your integral is a single integral. What have you done to achieve that?
 
Only one dimension ... I was attempting to illustrate what I meant about being careful about the definitions.
It looks to me like you don't quite understand what the different terms are for - but I cannot be sure because you don't seem to want to talk about it.
 

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