Show linear combination is not Hermitian

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the linear combination of operators, specifically the expression \(\hat{A} + i\hat{B}\), and the inquiry into why this combination is not Hermitian. The context involves concepts from quantum mechanics and operator theory.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of taking the Hermitian conjugate of the linear combination, questioning how the complex conjugate affects both the operators and the wave functions involved. There is discussion about the properties of the operators \(\hat{A}\) and \(\hat{B}\) and their implications for the Hermitian nature of the combination.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the mathematical reasoning behind the Hermitian conjugate process, while others are seeking clarification on specific steps and the effects of conjugation on the operators and wave functions. There is an acknowledgment of the need to consider the properties of the individual operators involved.

Contextual Notes

It is noted that \(\hat{A}\) and \(\hat{B}\) are confirmed to be Hermitian operators, which raises questions about the generalization of the non-Hermitian nature of their linear combination. The discussion also reflects on the complexity of handling complex conjugates in the context of operator products.

Shiz
Messages
8
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Linear combination is \hat{A} + i\hat{B}. It's given that it is not Hermitian already.


Homework Equations


∫ψi * \hat{Ω} ψj = (∫ψj * \hat{Ω} ψi)*


The Attempt at a Solution



∫ψi * (\hat{A} + i\hat{B}) ψj = (∫ψj * (\hat{A} + i\hat{B}) ψi)*

I chose to work with the right hand side of the equation first.
∫ψi * (\hat{A} + i\hat{B}) ψj = {∫ψj * \hat{A} ψi + i(∫ψj * \hat{B} ψi)}*

So I have to take the complex conjugate of the right hand side (not sure if that's the proper way to say it). What I don't understand is why the operator would become ∫ψj * \hat{A} ψi - i(∫ψj * \hat{B} ψi) and then ∫ψi * (\hat{A} - i\hat{B}) ψj.

What are the mathematical reasons? The complex conjugate of + i\hat{B} is -i\hat{B}. I would just be replacing the operator with its complex conjugate? That would give me the answer, but it doesn't seem that simple. Clarification at this would help! Thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The reason is the wave functions \Psi_{i,j} also get affected by conjugating. And when you want the hermitian conjugate of a producat of operators, you have to reverse the order of factors, since the hermitian conjugate (for example) of a matrix is the complex conjugate of the transpose of the original matrix: (A^*)_{ij}=\bar{A_{ji}}

If that's what you mean
 
Are ##\hat{A}## and ##\hat{B}## hermitian operators? If they are, it's not generally true that ##\hat{A} + i\hat{B}## is not hermitian (consider the case where ##\hat{B}## is the zero operator).
 
Ahat and Bhat are hermitian operators, yes. But (Ahat -/+ iBhat) is not hermitian. I think I understand but not sure. We have to take the complex conjugate to show that it is not hermitian. So (iBhat)* is (-iBhat). I was wondering if there was more to that step than what I am thinking.

Apologies for no code. I am on the iPhone app and am not sure how to do it.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K