When can you apply Ehrenfest's theorem?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of Ehrenfest's theorem in quantum mechanics, specifically addressing when it can be applied to time-independent wave functions versus time-dependent states. Participants explore the conditions under which the theorem holds and clarify their understanding of its validity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that Ehrenfest's theorem seems to apply even when the initial state is given as a time-independent wave function, questioning the validity of this application.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on why Ehrenfest's theorem can be applied to a time-independent wave function.
  • A different participant suggests that the confusion arises because the time-dependent part of the wave function disappears when multiplied by its complex conjugate, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the theorem's application.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of Ehrenfest's theorem to time-independent wave functions, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in understanding the conditions under which Ehrenfest's theorem is valid, particularly regarding the treatment of time-independent versus time-dependent wave functions.

Logan Rudd
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I know when the initial state (##\Psi(x,0)##) is given, ##\frac{d<x>}{dt} \not=<p>##. I thought you can only apply Ehrenfest's theorem when ##\Psi## is a function of x and t, however it seems like you can also apply it to the time-independent part (##\psi(x)##) by itself as well. Can someone explain to me why Ehrenfest's theorem is valid for ##\psi(x)##?

Thanks!
 
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Tip: enclose your LaTeX code in $$, not $. Correction: for "inline" LaTeX (i.e. in the middle of ordinary text) use ##, not $$. Use $$ when you want the code to "stand alone" as a separate paragraph.

You can edit your post if you don't wait too long, in which case you'll see "Edit" among the options at the bottom of the post. You apparently waited too long, so I fixed it for you.
 
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Logan, why do you think that Ehrenfest theorem can be applied to a time-independent wave function?
 
I think I see my confusion. It looks as if ET is being applied to ## \psi(x) ## but I think its just because the time dependent part disappears when you multiply it by its complex conjugate. Thanks!
 

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