Which one is correct? (the Matrix or Wave formulation of QM)

In summary, the matrix and wave formulations of Quantum Mechanics are equivalent theories that yield the same results. Professional scientists use both formulations interchangeably and do not consider them as separate formulations. Instead, they choose the most convenient one depending on the problem they are trying to solve. Dirac's formulation is considered the most clear as it is representation-free and allows for the use of different bases to solve problems.
  • #1
zoltrix
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matrix and wave formulation of QM are equivalent theories i.e they yield the same results
Which one is most frequentely used by professional scientists in solving real problems and why ?
 
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  • #2
For example, some systems can be considered perturbations of the harmonic oscillator, so it is computationally efficient to work in the discrete harmonic oscillator basis.
 
  • #3
Roughly, the matrix version is the formulation in terms of energy eigenvectors and eigenstates. The two formulations are identical, so in practice one goes seamlessly between the two fomulations. One doesn't think of them as separate formulations nowadays, as thinking of them as separate formulations is more confusing and historical than helpful. They are the same formulation.
 
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  • #4
That's why Dirac's formulation after all is the most clear formulation, because it is formulating QT in a "representation free" way. Then whether you do "wave mechanics" or "matrix mechanics" is simply the same theory using different bases to solve some problem, and which one is more convenient depends on the problem you want to solve.
 
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Related to Which one is correct? (the Matrix or Wave formulation of QM)

1. What is the difference between the Matrix and Wave formulations of QM?

The Matrix formulation of quantum mechanics, also known as the Heisenberg picture, describes the evolution of quantum systems using matrices and operators. The Wave formulation, also known as the Schrödinger picture, uses wave functions to describe the state of a quantum system and how it evolves over time. The main difference between the two is the mathematical framework used to describe quantum phenomena.

2. Which formulation is more accurate?

Both the Matrix and Wave formulations are equally accurate in describing quantum systems. They are just different mathematical representations of the same physical reality. The choice between the two often depends on the specific problem being studied and personal preference.

3. Can both formulations be used interchangeably?

Yes, the Matrix and Wave formulations are mathematically equivalent and can be used interchangeably to solve quantum problems. However, some problems may be easier to solve using one formulation over the other.

4. Is one formulation more intuitive than the other?

It is subjective whether one formulation is more intuitive than the other. Some may find the Matrix formulation more intuitive because it is based on familiar mathematical concepts such as matrices and operators. Others may find the Wave formulation more intuitive because it is based on the concept of wave functions, which can be visualized as probability distributions.

5. Are there any limitations to these formulations?

Both the Matrix and Wave formulations have their own limitations. The Matrix formulation can only be used for systems with a finite number of states, while the Wave formulation can be used for both finite and infinite systems. Additionally, both formulations do not fully explain the nature of quantum phenomena and are still subject to ongoing research and development.

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