Scaling of an eigenvalue with the coupling constant

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the scaling of eigenvalues in a Hamiltonian defined by ##H = - \frac{d^2}{dx^2}+gx^{2N}##, specifically exploring how the eigenvalues depend on the coupling constant ##g## and the implications of this scaling for different values of ##N##.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that the eigenvalues scale as ##\lambda \propto g^{\frac{2}{N+2}}## and suggests that this implies the eigenvalues remain on the same order of magnitude for increasing values of ##N##.
  • The same participant expresses confusion about the reasoning behind the scaling of eigenvalues with respect to ##g##.
  • Another participant proposes introducing a new variable ##y=g^\alpha## to find a suitable value of ##\alpha## that equalizes the pre-factors of kinetic and potential energy.
  • A subsequent reply clarifies the variable transformation, suggesting it should be ##y=g^\alpha x##.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants are exploring the scaling behavior of eigenvalues, but there is no consensus on the reasoning behind the scaling or the specific transformations to apply. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the initial scaling explanation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion involves assumptions about the relationship between kinetic and potential energy terms in the Hamiltonian, which may not be fully articulated. The dependence on the choice of ##N## and the implications for the eigenvalue scaling are also not fully resolved.

spaghetti3451
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Consider the Hamiltonian ##H = - \frac{d^2}{dx^2}+gx^{2N}##.

Scaling out the coupling constant ##g##, the eigenvalues scale as ##\lambda \propto g^{\frac{2}{N+2}}##.

So, we can drop the g dependence and just consider the numerical value of the eigenvalues and the associated spectral functions at ##g=1##.
I understand that if the eigenvalues do scale as ##\lambda \propto g^{\frac{2}{N+2}}##, then the eigenvalues remain on the same order of magnitude for increasing values of N (as a power of g). As a result, the value of g makes little difference to the value of the eigenvalues. That, I understand.

What I don't understand though is why the eigenvalues scale as ##\lambda \propto g^{\frac{2}{N+2}}## in the first place. Could somebody pleas explain? :(
 
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Try to introduce a new variable ##y=g^\alpha## and find a value of ##\alpha##, so that both the kinetic and the potential energy have the same pre-factor ##g^\beta##.
 
I believe you meant ##y=g^\alpha x##.
 
Of course, thank you!
 

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