What are the functions X^m_1 that are eigenfunctions of L^2 and L_x?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the spherical harmonics Y^m_l with l=1, specifically Y^{-1}_1, Y^0_1, and Y^1_1, which are functions of the angular momentum operators L^2 and L_z. The task is to derive a new set of functions X^m_1 that serve as eigenfunctions of L^2 and L_x. The solution involves expressing these spherical harmonics in spherical coordinates and finding a superposition of the given eigenfunctions to obtain the desired X^m_1 functions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical harmonics and their properties.
  • Familiarity with angular momentum operators L^2 and L_z in quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of spherical coordinates (θ, φ) and their relation to Cartesian coordinates.
  • Ability to perform superposition of functions in quantum mechanics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to express spherical harmonics in spherical coordinates.
  • Study the mathematical properties of angular momentum operators in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the concept of superposition in quantum states and its applications.
  • Investigate the relationship between eigenfunctions of different angular momentum operators.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, particularly those studying angular momentum, spherical harmonics, and their applications in physics.

Brewer
Messages
203
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The spherical harmonics Y^m_l with l=1 are given by
Y^{-1}_1 = \sqrt{\frac{3}{8\pi}}\frac{x-iy}{r}, Y^0_1 = \sqrt{\frac{3}{4\pi}}\frac{z}{r}, Y^1_1 = -\sqrt{\frac{3}{8\pi}}\frac{x+iy}{r}

and they are functions of L^2 and L_z where L is the angular momentum.

i) From these functions find a new set of three functions X^m_1 which are now eigenfunctions of L^2 and L_x.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not 100% sure about this question. Is it asking me to give the spherical harmonics in terms of \theta, \phi? I think I can do that, but if that's not the question, could someone please explain to me what is being asked of me.

Thanks

Brewer
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Brewer said:

Homework Statement


The spherical harmonics Y^m_l with l=1 are given by
Y^{-1}_1 = \sqrt{\frac{3}{8\pi}}\frac{x-iy}{r}, Y^0_1 = \sqrt{\frac{3}{4\pi}}\frac{z}{r}, Y^1_1 = -\sqrt{\frac{3}{8\pi}}\frac{x+iy}{r}

and they are functions of L^2 and L_z where L is the angular momentum.

i) From these functions find a new set of three functions X^m_1 which are now eigenfunctions of L^2 and L_x.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not 100% sure about this question. Is it asking me to give the spherical harmonics in terms of \theta, \phi? I think I can do that, but if that's not the question, could someone please explain to me what is being asked of me.

Thanks

Brewer

i think it would be better if you wrote your spherical harmonics in spherical coords ..

but in any case
if X_{lm} is an eignefunction of L^2 and Lz then
\hat{L_{z}} X_{lm} = mX_{lm}
and
\hat{L^2} X_{lm} = l(l+1) X_{lm}
and i think Xlm would b acquired by finding a superposition of the three given eigenfunctions.
 
Thats what the question gives, cartesian coords.
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
765
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K