The absolute value of the frequency in quantum mechanics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of frequency in quantum mechanics as presented in Bransden's "Quantum Mechanics" 2nd edition, specifically on page 61. It establishes that the absolute value of frequency, denoted as E = hv (where v represents frequency), lacks physical significance in non-relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory in flat spacetime. The key takeaway is that only differences in energy hold physical relevance, not absolute values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with energy-frequency relationships (E = hv)
  • Knowledge of non-relativistic quantum mechanics
  • Basic concepts of quantum field theory (QFT)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of energy differences in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the role of frequency in quantum field theory
  • Examine the significance of absolute versus relative values in physics
  • Review Bransden's "Quantum Mechanics" for deeper insights
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, will benefit from this discussion.

mccoy1
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I was reading Bransden's Quantum Mechanics 2nd edition, chapter 2 page 61. There,it says "It should be noted that since E =hv (v for nu), the absolute value of the frequency has no physical significance in Quantum mechanics..."
Why is that? Isn't this a contradiction?
 
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mccoy1 said:
Why is that?

Because the absolute value of the energy has no physical significance in QM (more precisely, in non-relativistic QM or in QFT in flat spacetime, where gravity is absent). Only differences in energy have physical significance.
 
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PeterDonis said:
Only differences in energy have physical significance.
I see. I got it now. Thank you PeterDonis.
 

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