# Wigner-Eckart theorem and reduced matrix element

1. Apr 6, 2012

### Tilde90

Wigner-Eckart theorem and "reduced matrix element"

Hello,

I am studying the Wigner-Eckart theorem and I have found some difficulties understanding the reduced matrix element of a spherical tensor.
In fact, a spherical tensor is commonly defined through its transformation properties, and I imagine it as a "vector of angular operators": the Wigner-Eckart theorem evaluates one matrix element of a component of this vector. However, I cannot understand the meaning of the reduced matrix element involved in the expression of the theorem.
Please, could you explain to me the "idea" behind it, or where is the mistake in my idea of spherical tensors (if there is a mistake)?

Thank you very much for your help!

2. May 17, 2017

### Saraphysics123

I have same problems

3. May 18, 2017

### DrDu

The point is that you only have to calculate only one matrix element -- in most cases, the one with maximal $M_J$ is easiest to calculate -- divide it by the corresponding Clebsch-Gordan coefficient to get the reduced matrix element. From this you can calculate all the other matrix elements by multiplication with the corresponding CG coefficients.

4. May 18, 2017

### Saraphysics123

Thank you
Thank you do you have problems for this theory