Help to rewrite Dirac equation

In summary: Therefore, it is usually ignored in the context of the Pauli equation. In summary, the conversation discusses the rewriting of an equation using B = ∇ × A and e = −|e|, which leads to a Schr¨odinger like equation. The topic of the B appearing in the second equation is also addressed, and the author mentions the use of an identity to derive the Pauli equation. The conversation ends with a question about the loss of mass in the equation, to which the response is that the mass term is just a constant potential and can be absorbed in an overall phase factor, thus it is usually ignored in the context of the Pauli equation.
  • #1
TimeRip496
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5
$$i\frac{\partial \phi}{\partial t} = \frac{1}{2m} (\sigma .P)(\sigma .P)\phi + eφ\phi$$

Rewriting the equation by using B = ∇ × A and e = −|e| (electron charge) leads to a Schr¨odinger like equation:
$$i\frac{\partial \phi}{\partial t} =[ \frac{1}{2m} (-i∇ + |e|A)^2 + \frac{|e|}{2m} σ.B - |e|φ ]\phi$$

How did the B suddenly appear in the second equation? Alll help will be greatly appreciated.
Source: http://physics.sharif.edu/~qmech/puppel.pdf ,Page 21.
 
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  • #2
use the identity...[itex] (\vec{\sigma}\cdot\vec{a})(\vec{\sigma}\cdot\vec{b}) = \vec{a}\cdot\vec{b}+i(\vec{a}\times\vec{b})\cdot\vec{\sigma}[/itex]
 
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  • #3
Also note that this is not the Dirac but the Pauli equation, which can be derived as the 0th order non-relativistic expansion of the Dirac equation (throwing away the antiparticles in the process).
 
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  • #4
Dr Transport said:
use the identity...[itex] (\vec{\sigma}\cdot\vec{a})(\vec{\sigma}\cdot\vec{b}) = \vec{a}\cdot\vec{b}+i(\vec{a}\times\vec{b})\cdot\vec{\sigma}[/itex]
Thanks! One last question is why the author lose the mass in this equation, $$i\frac{\partial \phi}{\partial t} = \frac{1}{2m} (\sigma .P)(\sigma .P)\phi + eφ\phi$$

Shouldnt it be like this $$i\frac{\partial \phi}{\partial t} = \frac{1}{2m} (\sigma .P)(\sigma .P)\phi + m\phi + eφ\phi$$?
 
  • #5
The mass term is just a constant potential, which you can absorb in an overall phase factor ##\exp(-\mathrm{i} m t)##, which cancels the term on the left- and right-hand side of your equation.
 
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FAQ: Help to rewrite Dirac equation

What is the Dirac equation and why does it need to be rewritten?

The Dirac equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes the behavior of spin-1/2 particles, such as electrons. It was first introduced by physicist Paul Dirac in 1928. However, advancements in particle physics have shown that the original equation needs to be modified in order to accurately describe the behavior of particles at high energies and in the presence of strong electromagnetic fields.

What are the main challenges in rewriting the Dirac equation?

One of the main challenges in rewriting the Dirac equation is to incorporate the principles of special relativity, which are essential for describing the behavior of particles at high energies. Additionally, the new equation must also be consistent with other theories, such as quantum electrodynamics, which have been experimentally verified.

What is the significance of rewriting the Dirac equation?

Rewriting the Dirac equation is crucial for accurately describing the behavior of particles at high energies, which is essential for understanding phenomena such as particle collisions and the behavior of matter in extreme environments. It also helps to bridge the gap between quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity, two fundamental theories in physics.

Has the Dirac equation been successfully rewritten?

Yes, the Dirac equation has been successfully rewritten in the form of the Dirac-Fock equation, which takes into account the effects of the vacuum polarization. However, this is still an ongoing area of research, and scientists are continually working towards further modifications and improvements to the equation.

How does rewriting the Dirac equation impact our understanding of the universe?

Rewriting the Dirac equation has significant implications for our understanding of the universe, as it helps us to better describe and predict the behavior of particles under extreme conditions. This, in turn, can lead to further advancements in fields such as particle physics, cosmology, and quantum computing.

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