Where Does the Double Hat in the Hamiltonian Raising Operator Come From?

In summary, the conversation discusses a given line that includes a double hat and a Hermitian operator. It is mentioned that the double hat is used to differentiate between a Hermitian operator and its eigenvalue. The equation is also related to a commutator relation involving the operator and its eigenvalue. The origin of the double hat and other elements in the equation is questioned.
  • #1
Chronos000
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Homework Statement



I'm given the line: (the coding stopped responding for the "hats")

[tex]\hat{}H[/tex]([tex]\hat{}a[/tex]|n>) = (doublehat a) H(hat) |n> + [Hhat,ahat]|n>

I'm assuming Hhat= hbar *w ( aa* + 1/2)

so I don't know what they are doing. where does the double hat come from. where does any of it come from basically?
 
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  • #2
The hat just comes to differentiate between a hermitian operator and its eigenvalue.
I am not sure myself what the the doublhat means in your case.

Anyway this equation is from the commutator relation:
[tex][H,a]= Ha - aH[/tex]
 
  • #3
but this expression includes the commutation [H,a].
 

FAQ: Where Does the Double Hat in the Hamiltonian Raising Operator Come From?

What is a Hamiltonian operator?

A Hamiltonian operator, also known as the Hamiltonian, is an operator in quantum mechanics that represents the total energy of a system. It is used to describe the dynamics and evolution of a quantum system over time.

What is the significance of the Hamiltonian operator in quantum mechanics?

The Hamiltonian operator is crucial in quantum mechanics as it allows us to calculate the energy of a system and predict its future behavior. It is also used to determine the allowed energy levels of a system and the corresponding wavefunctions.

How is the Hamiltonian operator related to the raising operator?

The raising operator is a mathematical operator that increases the energy of a quantum system by one unit. It is related to the Hamiltonian operator through the energy eigenvalue equation, which states that the Hamiltonian operator acting on a wavefunction gives the energy of that wavefunction multiplied by the wavefunction itself.

Can the Hamiltonian operator be used to solve the Schrodinger equation?

Yes, the Hamiltonian operator is an essential part of the Schrodinger equation, which is the fundamental equation of quantum mechanics. It is used to find the time evolution of a quantum system by determining its energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions.

How is the Hamiltonian operator used in real-world applications?

The Hamiltonian operator is used in a variety of real-world applications, such as in the study of atomic and molecular systems, quantum computing, and quantum simulations. It is also used in fields such as chemistry, material science, and condensed matter physics to understand the behavior and properties of quantum systems.

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