Generating function, hamiltonian dynamics

AI Thread Summary
A generating function serves as a bridge between old and new phase space variables in canonical transformations. The provided generating function F=a*cot(Q) lacks dependence on the old variables p and q, making it challenging to derive the required transformation. Participants express confusion over how to express p and q in terms of P and Q without a proper functional relationship. It is emphasized that a valid generating function should involve both old and new variables to facilitate the transformation. The discussion highlights the necessity for a two-variable function to achieve the desired contact transformation.
devd
Messages
47
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



A canonical transformation is made from (p,q) to (P,Q) through a generating function F=a*cot(Q), where 'a' is a constant. Express p,q in terms of P,Q.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


A generating function is supposed to be a bridge between (p,q) and (P,Q), right? Now, if there is no functional dependence of F on p or q, that is the old variables, how is one supposed to find out the contact transformation asked for?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
yeah that generating function doesn't make sense. It should be F(q,Q) F(p,Q)

it has to be a function of two variables which connect the transformation Which the given does not
 
Thanks a lot! :)
 
Thread 'Help with Time-Independent Perturbation Theory "Good" States Proof'
(Disclaimer: this is not a HW question. I am self-studying, and this felt like the type of question I've seen in this forum. If there is somewhere better for me to share this doubt, please let me know and I'll transfer it right away.) I am currently reviewing Chapter 7 of Introduction to QM by Griffiths. I have been stuck for an hour or so trying to understand the last paragraph of this proof (pls check the attached file). It claims that we can express Ψ_{γ}(0) as a linear combination of...
Back
Top