Find probability of spin state after certain time.

In summary, the question is about calculating the probability of a state |x-up> after a wave function collapse and evolution in a Hamiltonian. The starting state is |x-up> and the time interval is pi/omega. The Hamiltonian is -omega*Sz. The probability is calculated using the formula P = |<x-up|Sx|psi>|^2.
  • #1
baouba
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Homework Statement


Question: http://imgur.com/YzexPKl (only part c)

Homework Equations


From part a) I got |psi> = (1/sqrt(2))(e^(iwt/2)|z-up> + ie^(-iwt/2)|z-down>
I expanded this wave function in the x-spin basis and got,
|psi> = (1/(2))[(e^(iwt/2)+ie^(-iwt/2))|x-up> + (e^(iwt/2)-ie^(-iwt/2))|x-down>

The Attempt at a Solution


I know the probability of |psi> being in some sate |q> is P = |<q|psi>|^2 but how does this change after the wavefunction has already collapsed once? Since we're making a measurement should it be P = |<x-up|Sx|psi>|^2? where Sx is the x-spin operator? I just don't get that if that's the case, since we know the first measurement is |x-up> we'd get Sx|psi> = Sx|x-up>, then |<x-up|Sx|psi>|^2 = |<x-up|Sx|x-up>|^2 =|sx|^2 where sx is the Sx operator's eigenvalue?
 
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  • #2
baouba said:
Since we're making a measurement should it be P = |<x-up|Sx|psi>|^2?
No, that's not a probability.
In part c, your starting state is ##|x;+\rangle## because as you have realized the previous state collapsed upon measurement to this state. Then this state is let evolve for a time interval ##\Delta t = \pi/\omega## in a Hamiltonian ##H = -\omega S_z##. At the end of that interval, you are asked to calculate the probability for the state.##|x;+\rangle##.
 

FAQ: Find probability of spin state after certain time.

1. What is spin state in quantum mechanics?

Spin state refers to the intrinsic angular momentum of a particle in quantum mechanics. It is a quantum property that can have two values: spin up and spin down.

2. How is spin state related to probability in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, the probability of a particle being in a certain spin state is given by the square of the amplitude of its wavefunction. This is known as the Born rule.

3. How do you calculate the probability of a spin state at a certain time?

To calculate the probability of a spin state at a certain time, you need to first determine the wavefunction of the particle. Then, you can use the Schrödinger equation to evolve the wavefunction in time and calculate the probability using the Born rule.

4. What factors can affect the probability of a spin state after a certain time?

The probability of a spin state after a certain time can be affected by various factors such as the initial state of the particle, external forces acting on the particle, and the presence of other particles that may interact with it.

5. Can the probability of a spin state at a certain time be experimentally measured?

Yes, the probability of a spin state at a certain time can be experimentally measured through techniques such as electron spin resonance or nuclear magnetic resonance. These techniques involve manipulating the spin state of particles and observing the resulting changes in their behavior.

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