Unitary spacetime translation operator

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the unitary spacetime translation operator defined by Srednicki in equations (2.23) and (2.24) as T(a) ≡ exp(-iP^μ a_μ / ℏ). The relationship T(a)^{-1} φ(x) T(a) = φ(x-a) is derived by substituting φ(x) = e^{-iPx/ℏ} φ(0) e^{+iPx/ℏ} into equation (2.24) and utilizing the definition of T(a). This confirms the validity of the equation, demonstrating the operator's role in translating fields in spacetime.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum field theory concepts
  • Familiarity with Srednicki's "Quantum Field Theory" textbook
  • Knowledge of unitary operators in quantum mechanics
  • Basic grasp of spacetime symmetries and translations
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  • Study the derivation of the unitary operator in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the implications of spacetime translations on quantum fields
  • Learn about the role of the momentum operator P in quantum field theory
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Physicists, quantum field theorists, and advanced students seeking to deepen their understanding of spacetime symmetries and unitary transformations in quantum mechanics.

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Srednicki eqn. (2.23) and (2.24) states: We can make this a little fancier by defining the unitary spacetime translation operator

T(a) \equiv \exp(-iP^\mu a_\mu/ \hbar)

Then we have
T(a)^{-1} \phi(x) T(a) = \phi(x-a)

How do we get the second equation from the first equation?
 
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If you believe eq. (2.22) just above this, then you can plug ##\phi(x) = e^{-iPx/\hbar}\phi(0)e^{+iPx/\hbar}## into eq. (2.24). Then using the definition of ##T(a)## you can verify that eq. (2.24) holds.
 
Lovely answer.
 

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