Schroedinger Equation in Momentum Space

In summary, the conversation discusses deriving the Schroedinger equation in momentum space for a harmonic oscillator, with the result being the generalized Schroedinger equation with only kinetic energy and no electrodynamics. The final equation also includes a summation involving the potential and its derivatives evaluated at 0.
  • #1
Domnu
178
0
Problem
Derive the Schroedinger equation (for harmonic oscillator) in momentum space.

The attempt at a solution
We have

[tex]ih \frac{\partial}{\partial t} \langle p' | \alpha \rangle = \langle p' | \frac{p^2}{2m} | \alpha \rangle + \langle p' | V(x) | \alpha \rangle[/tex]
[tex]\iff ih \frac{\partial}{\partial t} \langle p' | \alpha \rangle = \frac{p'^2}{2m}\langle p' | \alpha \rangle + \left(i\hbar\frac{\partial}{\partial p'}\right)^2 \langle p' | \alpha \rangle[/tex]
[tex]
\[
\iff ih\frac{\partial \Phi(p)}{\partial t} = \frac{p^2}{2m}\Phi(p) - \hbar^2 \frac{\partial^2 \Phi(p)}{\partial p^2}
\]
[/tex]

Is the above correctly done? If so, is this the generalized Schroedinger equation (without electrodynamics, etc.. just p^2/2m kinetic energy)?:

[tex]
\[
\iff ih\frac{\partial \Phi(p)}{\partial t} = \frac{p^2}{2m}\Phi +\displaystyle\sum_{n = 0}^\infty \frac{V^{(n)}(0)}{n!}\left(i\hbar \frac{\partial}{\partial p}}\right)^n \Phi
\]
[/tex]

Thanks very much for your help :)
 
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  • #2
Yes and yes (but V and its derivatives should be evaluated at 0, not x).
 
  • #3
Avodyne said:
Yes and yes (but V and its derivatives should be evaluated at 0, not x).

Yes, sorry that was a typo. :) Thanks very much!
 

FAQ: Schroedinger Equation in Momentum Space

What is the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space?

The Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space is a mathematical equation that describes the behavior of quantum particles in terms of their momentum instead of their position. It is an alternative form of the Schrödinger Equation in Position Space, which describes the behavior of particles in terms of their position.

Why is the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space important?

The Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space is important because it allows us to analyze and understand the behavior of quantum particles in terms of their momentum. This is particularly useful in situations where the momentum of a particle is known or needs to be determined, such as in particle collisions or in quantum systems with varying energies.

How is the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space derived?

The Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space is derived from the Schrödinger Equation in Position Space using a mathematical operation known as a Fourier transform. This transforms a function from being described in terms of position to being described in terms of momentum.

What are the advantages and limitations of the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space?

One advantage of the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space is that it provides a more intuitive understanding of the behavior of quantum particles in terms of their momentum. It also allows for easier calculations and predictions in certain situations. However, it does have limitations in that it cannot fully describe the behavior of particles in all situations, and it can be mathematically complex to work with in certain cases.

How is the Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space used in real-world applications?

The Schrödinger Equation in Momentum Space is used in a variety of real-world applications, such as in quantum mechanics, solid state physics, and nuclear physics. It is also used in the development of new technologies, such as in the design of quantum computers and in the study of materials for renewable energy sources.

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