How to Find Eigenfunctions of Lx for a Hydrogen Atom in a Specific State?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on finding eigenfunctions of Lx for a hydrogen atom in a specific state represented by Φ=aY_11+bY_20. The initial approach involves using matrix mechanics to construct an 8-order matrix, which participants find cumbersome. Suggestions include treating the l=1 and l=2 cases separately and considering the transformation of spherical harmonics under rotations. Despite these suggestions, some participants express that these methods are still complex. The conversation highlights the challenges in solving the problem efficiently while seeking alternative strategies.
wengsee
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The system is at the state of Φ=aY_11+bY_20 (a^2+b^2=1),please find the possible eigenfunctions of Lx and the relevant possibilities?
My solution: I have attempted to use the matrix mechanics to work out the exercise,but I should work out a 8-order matrix.
Firstly I use the Fmn=〈m︳F|n〉to work out the matrix Lx in the Hilbert space of Lz or
L^2,then use the Time-independent Schrodinger Equation ,namely (Lx)mn ψ=Lx ψ ,to work out its eigenvector|ψn〉.At last ,I use the 〈Φ︳ψn〉,we can figure out probability of the related eigenvalue.I have tried to solute it in this way ,but in the process ,we should work out a 8-order matrix .It is too difficult to deal with it .
Are there someone have easier way to solute the question?
 
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wengsee said:
The system is at the state of Φ=aY_11+bY_20 (a^2+b^2=1), please find the possible eigenfunctions of Lx and the relevant possibilities?
My solution: I have attempted to use the matrix mechanics to work out the exercise,but I should work out a 8-order matrix.
Firstly I use the Fmn=〈m︳F|n〉to work out the matrix Lx in the Hilbert space of Lz or L^2, then use the Time-independent Schrodinger Equation, namely (Lx)mn ψ=Lx ψ, to work out its eigenvector |ψn〉.
You have the right equation, but that's not the Schrodinger equation.
At last, I use the 〈Φ︳ψn〉, we can figure out probability of the related eigenvalue. I have tried to solute it in this way, but in the process, we should work out a 8-order matrix. It is too difficult to deal with it.
Are there someone have easier way to solute the question?
Your approach will work, though, as you found out, it seems rather unwieldy. One thing you can do is treat the l=1 and l=2 cases separately.

Another approach might be to consider how the spherical harmonics transform under rotations.
 
Yes,The equation is just the eigenvalue equation of Lx.
As you say ,the another approach is" consider how the spherical harmonics transform under rotations. ".But in my opinion,it is not so easy to do as you expected.
 
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