What is an Eigenstate? Simple Explanation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of eigenstates in quantum mechanics, focusing on their definition and relation to eigenvalues and operators. Participants seek a simple explanation of the term and its implications in quantum theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant defines an eigenstate as a quantum-mechanical state corresponding to an eigenvalue of a wave equation, requesting a simpler explanation.
  • Another participant suggests that understanding eigenstates requires some background in linear algebra, particularly knowledge of eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
  • A later post reiterates the definition of an eigenstate in relation to operators like the Hamiltonian and the Schrödinger Equation, explaining that it is a non-zero state that, when applied to an operator, results in itself multiplied by a constant factor known as the eigenvalue.
  • Multiple participants share a link to an external resource for further clarification on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and seek clarification, indicating that there is no consensus on a simple explanation of eigenstates. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best way to convey the concept.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the participants' differing levels of background knowledge in linear algebra and quantum mechanics, which affects their ability to grasp the concept of eigenstates fully.

anni
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TL;DR
what is eigenstate?
I found this:
Eigenstate: a quantum-mechanical state corresponding to an eigenvalue of a wave equation.

would you please some one explain simply?

Thanks
 
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Hard to explain without some knowledge of your background. Have you studied linear algebra much. Do you know about eigenvalues and eigenvectors in the math context? That's pretty much the same thing.
 
Given an operator, (for example, the Hamiltonian, or the Schrödinger Equation) an eigenstate is a (non-zero) state that, when applied on the operator, results of itself multiplied by some constant factor (that is known as the eigenvalue).
 
Gaussian97 said:
Given an operator, (for example, the Hamiltonian, or the Schrödinger Equation) an eigenstate is a (non-zero) state that, when applied on the operator, results of itself multiplied by some constant factor (that is known as the eigenvalue).
thank you so much
 

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