Perturbed Hamiltonian and its affect on the eigenvalues

In summary, the question involves finding the changes in eigenvalues of a perturbed Hamiltonian, given the original unperturbed Hamiltonian and a perturbation term. The solution involves separating the Hamiltonian into unperturbed and perturbation matrices, and then using the perturbation theory formula to approximate the new energies. The changes in eigenvalues are then determined from the full expressions of the new energies.
  • #1
pondzo
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



$$E_n^{(2)}=\sum_{k\neq n}\frac{|H_{kn}'|^2}{E_n^{(0)}-e_k^{(0)}}$$

The Attempt at a Solution



Not sure where to start here. The question doesn't give any information about the unperturbed Hamiltonian. Some guidance on the direction would be great! Cheers.
 
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  • #2
Start by writing out ##H_T = H_0 + H'##, where ##H_T## is the total Hamiltonian, the matrix of which is given in the question, ##H_0## the unperturbed Hamiltonian whose elements do not contain ##\lambda##, and ##H'## the perturbation term which is proportional to ##\lambda##.
 
  • #3
Hi blue_leaf! Thanks for that, I just realized that I interpreted the question wrong. I thought the matrix given was only the unperturbed Hamiltonian.

So I have separated it into its un/pertrubed matrices. I just don't think I understand what the question is asking, when it says the change in eigenvalues.

##E_1\approx E_1^{(0)}+E_1^{(1)}+E_1^{(2)}##
##~~~~~=E_0+0-\frac{4}{7}E_0\lambda^2##

##E_2\approx E_2^{(0)}+E_2^{(1)}+E_2^{(2)}##
##~~~~~=8E_0+0+\frac{4}{7}E_0\lambda^2##

##E_3\approx E_3^{(0)}+E_3^{(1)}+E_3^{(2)}##
##~~~~~=3E_0+E_0\lambda+0##

##E_4\approx E_4^{(0)}+E_4^{(1)}+E_4^{(2)}##
##~~~~~=7E_0+0+0##

So are the changes in the eigenvalues ##-\frac{4}{7}E_0\lambda^2,~\frac{4}{7}E_0\lambda^2,~E_0\lambda \text{ and } 0## respectively ?
 
  • #4
I think the full expressions of the new energies are what the questions asks.
 

FAQ: Perturbed Hamiltonian and its affect on the eigenvalues

What is a perturbed Hamiltonian?

A perturbed Hamiltonian is a modified version of the original Hamiltonian, which is a mathematical representation of the total energy of a physical system. The perturbed Hamiltonian includes additional terms or modifications to the equations that account for external forces or disturbances, such as collisions or interactions with other particles.

How does a perturbed Hamiltonian affect the eigenvalues of a system?

A perturbed Hamiltonian can change the eigenvalues of a system by shifting their values or introducing new eigenvalues. This is because the perturbation introduces new terms to the equations of the Hamiltonian, which can alter the energy levels of the system. The eigenvalues represent the allowed energy levels of the system, so any changes to the Hamiltonian will affect these values.

Can a perturbed Hamiltonian lead to the creation of new eigenvalues?

Yes, a perturbed Hamiltonian can introduce new eigenvalues that were not present in the original Hamiltonian. This is because the perturbation can create new energy levels that were not allowed in the original system. These new eigenvalues can represent new physical states or configurations of the system.

What factors can cause a perturbed Hamiltonian?

A perturbed Hamiltonian can be caused by various factors, such as external forces, interactions with other particles, or changes in the system's parameters. For example, a collision between two particles can cause a perturbation in the Hamiltonian, as the particles' energies and positions are altered by the interaction.

How do scientists study the effects of a perturbed Hamiltonian on a system?

Scientists use mathematical calculations and simulations to study the effects of a perturbed Hamiltonian on a system. They can also conduct experiments to observe the changes in the system's energy levels and compare them to the predictions of the perturbed Hamiltonian. Additionally, analytical methods and approximations can also be used to understand the impact of the perturbation on the system's eigenvalues.

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