What is the expectation value of Sz for the ground state?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the expectation value of Sz for the ground state in quantum mechanics, specifically using the Schrödinger Equation: H psi = E psi. The ground state energy is determined to be -1/2.K.H.hcross, with S set to 1/2. The key challenge presented is converting the ground state into the appropriate spin states for the z direction, as the Hamiltonian primarily interacts with the x component of the spin.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Schrödinger Equation
  • Familiarity with quantum spin systems, particularly S=1/2
  • Knowledge of Hamiltonians in quantum mechanics
  • Ability to manipulate eigenvectors and eigenstates
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to express spin states in different directions, particularly Sz
  • Study the implications of Hamiltonians on spin systems
  • Learn about expectation values in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the relationship between eigenvectors of Hamiltonians and spin components
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those studying spin systems and the application of the Schrödinger Equation in calculating expectation values.

shally
Messages
8
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Kindly take a look at the attachment for the problem statement.

Homework Equations



Schrödinger Equation: H psi = E psi

The Attempt at a Solution



For Part A: H psi = E psi
S= 1/2
So energy of ground state is -1/2.K.H.hcross

Could you tell me if I am on the right track?

I have no idea on how to attempt Part B. Kindly help. Thank you.
 

Attachments

  • 3.jpg
    3.jpg
    20.2 KB · Views: 525
Physics news on Phys.org
shally said:
For Part A: H psi = E psi
S= 1/2
So energy of ground state is -1/2.K.H.hcross

Yes, that's correct.

I have no idea on how to attempt Part B. Kindly help. Thank you.

Since the magnetic field has no component in the y or z directions, the Hamiltonian just extracts the x component of the spin and multiplies it by -KH. So eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian are eigenvectors of Sx.

However, you're looking for the expectation value of Sz. Can you write the ground state in terms of the spin states for the z direction?
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
4K
Replies
29
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
2K