How Are Spin 1 Particles Represented in Quantum Mechanics?

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In quantum mechanics, a spin 1 particle measured to have m=1 along the x direction can be represented by a specific spinor state. This state is indeed a column vector, but the correct representation involves using the Sx matrix to find the appropriate eigenvector corresponding to the eigenvalue of hbar. The discussion also highlights the importance of normalizing the spinor after calculations. Additionally, there is a note that the original post was misplaced in the forum, as it pertains more to homework assistance rather than theoretical discussion. Understanding the three-dimensional representation of SU(2) is crucial for identifying these eigenvectors.
Simp
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Hi there,
I have a question, something that is confusing me.
If a particle of spin 1 is measured to have m=1 along the x direction, would the spinor state just be a column vector with (1,0,0), which would also be the spinor if x was infact z. OR would the spinor be determined by multiplying the Sx matrix by a column vector of (a,b,c,d) and letting this equal the eigenvalue (hbar in this case) muliplied by column vector (a,b,c,d) and working out their values and normalising.?
Thanks!
 
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Well, I would write down the three-dimensional representation of SU(2) and look for the appropriate eigenvectors (which you call spinor states). An m=1 state along x is described by an eigenvector of S_x with eigenvalue 1, right?
 
I am not sure what you mean by SU(2) ?
 
Simp, welcome to PhysicsForums.
However, your thread is in the wrong forum, as this is the Quantum Mechanics forum and not the Physics Homework forum. If you need assistance with your homework problems, may I direct you to the appropriate forum: https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=152
Thank you.
 

Thread 'Two equivalent statements of time reversal symmetric Hamiltonian'

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