Time Evolution of Measurables(Hamiltonian)

In summary, the discussion covers the conservation of a physical quantity f that commutes with the Hamiltonian operator H and does not have explicit time dependence. This results in the quantity being conserved and its mean value remaining constant over time. The commutator being zero also allows for simultaneous measurements of f and energy. However, in the case of a time-varying potential, energy may not be conserved while f remains conserved according to the theorem. The commutator should still be zero, allowing for simultaneous measurements of f and changing energy. The evolution of energy over time is dependent on the potential the system is subject to. The measurement of f does not affect the statistics of energy measurements.
  • #1
aim1732
430
2
Supposing a physical quantity f whose operator commutes with the Hamiltonian operator H, and supposing it has no explicit time dependence, then the result regarding the time derivative of the operators gives us that the quantity is conserved and its mean value does not change with time.The commutator being zero will also mean that the two quantities, f and energy can be measured simultaneously.Now if the system were subject to a time varying potential then the energy will not be conserved(because the Hamiltonian will have an explicit time dependence) but the quantity f is still conserved(according to the theorem).And the commutator should still be zero so that the energy changes but f does not, and they are still simultaneously measurable.How will the energy evolve in time?Will it become indefinite(considering we start with a definite-energy state) or will it continue to remain a definite energy(and also definite-f) state?Or does this depend on the potential the system is subject to?Is what i said above correct?
 
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  • #2
The measurement of f does not affect the statistics of the measurements of energy, so what is different - what are you asking? The time evolution of energy measurements would be the same as if you didn't know about f.
 
  • #3
My bad.I mixed up questions and was talking something else.I think I have got it now,though.
 

What is the Hamiltonian in terms of time evolution?

The Hamiltonian is a mathematical operator that represents the total energy of a physical system. In terms of time evolution, it describes how the observables of a system change over time.

How does the Hamiltonian affect the evolution of a system?

The Hamiltonian acts as a generator of time evolution, meaning it determines how the state of a system changes over time. It is responsible for the dynamics of a system, such as the motion of particles or the evolution of quantum states.

What is the relationship between the Hamiltonian and the laws of motion?

The Hamiltonian is closely related to the laws of motion, specifically the equations of motion in classical mechanics and the Schrödinger equation in quantum mechanics. It provides a way to calculate the time evolution of a system in terms of its energy and other measurable quantities.

Can the Hamiltonian change over time?

Yes, the Hamiltonian can change over time if the system itself changes. For example, in a system with an external force acting on it, the Hamiltonian will change as the force changes. However, in systems with time-independent Hamiltonians, such as closed quantum systems, the Hamiltonian remains constant.

How is the Hamiltonian related to the concept of energy?

The Hamiltonian is a measure of the total energy of a system, including both its potential and kinetic energy. In classical mechanics, the Hamiltonian is equivalent to the total energy of a system, while in quantum mechanics, it represents the average energy of a system.

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