What is the Momentum Operator Identity in Modern Quantum Mechanics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the Momentum Operator Identity as presented in equation (1.7.15) of Sakurai's "Modern Quantum Mechanics," 2nd edition. Participants clarify the application of series expansion in quantum mechanics, specifically addressing the differentiation of functions in the context of the identity. The key takeaway is the correct interpretation of the series expansion, where the variable 'a' is treated as the expansion variable and 'x' as the constant point of expansion. The participants emphasize the importance of precise notation in differentiation to avoid confusion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly state vectors and operators.
  • Familiarity with series expansion techniques in calculus.
  • Knowledge of differentiation and its notation in mathematical physics.
  • Experience with Sakurai's "Modern Quantum Mechanics," 2nd edition, specifically equation (1.7.15).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Momentum Operator Identity in quantum mechanics.
  • Learn about Taylor series expansions and their applications in physics.
  • Review differentiation techniques in the context of quantum mechanics.
  • Examine the implications of operator notation in quantum mechanics, particularly in relation to state vectors.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, particularly those studying operator identities and series expansions. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics.

malawi_glenn
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Homework Statement


I want to show:

\langle x' - \triangle x' \vert \alpha \rangle = \langle x' \vert \alpha \rangle - \triangle x' \dfrac{\partial}{\partial x'}\langle x' \vert \alpha \rangle

Homework Equations



\vert \alpha \rangle is a state.

The Attempt at a Solution



i have no clue, can anyone give me a hint? Is the bra being splitted into two, or what?

This is a part of eq (1.7.15) in Sakurai mordern quantum mechanics, 2ed.
 
Last edited:
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It's just the first term in a power series expansion. Like f(x-a)=f(x)-a*df(x)/dx.
 
aha okay I'll try that one, thanks a lot!
 
But I think the first term of the series expansion must be a constant but not a function of x.

So I'm wondering..
 
crazypoets said:
But I think the first term of the series expansion must be a constant but not a function of x.

So I'm wondering..

In f(x-a)=f(x)-a*df(x)/dx I'm thinking of 'x' as the constant (point to expand around) and 'a' as the expansion variable.
 
But f is differentiated by 'x' in f(x-a)=f(x)-a*df(x)/dx.

I think if 'a' is the variable the series expansion must be

<br /> <br /> f(x-a)=f(x)-a*\frac{df(x-a)}{da} |_{a=0}<br /> <br />

I'm studying the part of QM and have difficulty in understanding the eq (1.7.15).

I want to verify that eq,

but I think there may be some mistakes in the explanation by series expansion.
 
crazypoets said:
But f is differentiated by 'x' in f(x-a)=f(x)-a*df(x)/dx.

I think if 'a' is the variable the series expansion must be

<br /> <br /> f(x-a)=f(x)-a*\frac{df(x-a)}{da} |_{a=0}<br /> <br />

I'm studying the part of QM and have difficulty in understanding the eq (1.7.15).

I want to verify that eq,

but I think there may be some mistakes in the explanation by series expansion.

Now that has the wrong sign in the derivative if you are taking it d/da. It will give you -f'(x). If you want to be super precise how about (to first order in a),

<br /> f(x-a)=f(x)-a \frac{df(z)}{dz} |_{z=x}<br />

the variable in the differentiation symbol is really just a dummy, not x or a. Or just f(x-a)=f(x)-a*f'(x) is also clear.
 

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