Uncertainty Principle and Operator Algebra

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the Heisenberg uncertainty principle using operator algebra, specifically through the analysis of position and momentum observables, denoted as x and p. Participants explore the implications of the commutation relation [r,q]=iq, where c is a real constant. The conversation emphasizes finding the minimum uncertainties in the predicted values of position and momentum by manipulating the normalized state vector |\varphi> and the ket vector |\phi>=(\alpha*r+iq)|\varphi>. The final goal is to demonstrate that =c^2/4 by minimizing the quadratic equation formed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
  • Familiarity with operator algebra and self-adjoint observables.
  • Knowledge of quantum state vectors and expectation values.
  • Ability to manipulate commutation relations in quantum systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics.
  • Learn about self-adjoint operators and their properties in quantum theory.
  • Explore the concept of expectation values and their calculation in quantum states.
  • Investigate the implications of commutation relations in quantum mechanics.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists working with operator algebra, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.

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Homework Statement

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle can be derived by operator algebra , as follows. Consider a one-dimensional system, with position and momentum observables x and p. The goal is to find the minimum possible uncertainties in the predicted values of the position and momentum in any state [tex]|\varphi>[/tex] of the system. We need the following preliminaries.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



a) Suppose the self-adjoint observables q and r satisfy the commutation relation

[r,q]=iq, where c is a constant(not an operator). Show c is real.

should I take the self-adjoint of [r,q], i.e.[tex][r,q]^{\dagger}[/tex] ?

b) Let the system have the normalized state vector [tex]|\varphi>[/tex] and define the ket vector

[tex]|\phi>=(\alpha*r+iq)|\varphi>[/tex] where [tex]\alpha[/tex] is a real constant(again, a number , not an operator). used equations [tex]<\phi|\phi> >=0[/tex] and [r,q]=ic to show that

[tex]\alpha^2<r^2>-\alpha*c+<q^2>>=0[/tex], where [tex]<r^2>=<\varphi|r^2|\varphi>[/tex] and [tex]q^2[/tex]

Should I begin by finding [tex]<\phi|\phi>[/tex]?

Since, [tex]|\phi>=(\alpha*r+iq)|\varphi>[/tex] would that mean [tex]<\phi|=<|\varphi(\alpha*r-iq)[/tex]

c) By seeking the value of [tex]\alpha[/tex] that minimizes the left side of the equation [tex]\alpha^2<r^2>-\alpha*c+<q^2>>=0[/tex], show

[tex]<r^2><q^2>=c^2/4[/tex]

should I multiply the expectation value [tex]<r^2>[/tex] to the equation [tex]\alpha^2<r^2> -\alpha*c+<q^2>>=0[/tex]
 
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