Symmetry transformation in Heisenberg vs Schrödinger Picture

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the differences in symmetry transformations between the Heisenberg and Schrödinger pictures in quantum mechanics. The transformation of state vectors and observables is defined by the equations $$\Psi \rightarrow U(\Lambda) \Psi$$ for state vectors and $$P(t) = U^\dagger (t)PU(t)$$ for observables in the Heisenberg picture. The key conclusion is that the expectation values derived from these transformations are not equivalent unless the symmetry transformation is time-independent, which implies that the time evolution operator must be adjusted accordingly. The participant identifies a misunderstanding regarding the Hamiltonian's behavior under Lorentz transformations.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically the Heisenberg and Schrödinger pictures.
  • Familiarity with symmetry transformations and their mathematical representations.
  • Knowledge of the time evolution operator in quantum mechanics.
  • Basic grasp of Lorentz transformations and their implications in physics.
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  • Study the implications of Lorentz transformations on quantum state evolution.
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  • Explore the mathematical framework of symmetry transformations in quantum field theory.
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Physicists, particularly those specializing in quantum mechanics, theoretical physicists, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of symmetry transformations in quantum systems.

hgandh
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Symmetry transformations are changes in our point of view that preserve the possible outcomes of experiment:
$$\Psi \rightarrow U(\Lambda) \Psi$$
In the Heisenberg picture, observables in a fixed reference frame evolve according to:
$$P(t) = U^\dagger (t)PU(t)$$ while in the Schrödinger picture, the state vector evolves as $$\Psi (t) = U(t) \Psi$$
Now at a time t, we change our reference frame. The expectation value of the observable in the two pictures is then
$$(U(\Lambda) \Psi, P(t)U(\Lambda) \Psi) $$ in the Heisenberg picture and $$(U(\Lambda) \Psi (t), PU(\Lambda) \Psi (t)) $$ in the Schrödinger picture. However, these do not give equivalent values. Can someone point out where my reasoning is wrong?
 
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Is your symmetry transformation time-independent? I'm guessing it probably is and, if so, then ##U(\Lambda)## commutes with ##U(t)##, leading to equivalent expectation values, afaics.

HTH.
 
strangerep said:
Is your symmetry transformation time-independent? I'm guessing it probably is and, if so, then ##U(\Lambda)## commutes with ##U(t)##, leading to equivalent expectation values, afaics.

HTH.
No it is a general Lorentz transformation. I believe my mistake was the the time evolution operator itself changes in the new reference frame since the Hamiltonian as seen in this new frame is in general not the same as in the original.
$$U(t) \to U(\Lambda)U(t)U^{-1} (\Lambda)$$
 

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