Some questions about commutation relation

In summary, the process of quantizing a field involves defining a commutation relation, which follows the rules of the field. This is different from anti-commutation, which is based on symmetry and can also be used to quantize a system. Dirac's book "Principles of Quantum Mechanics" explains this approach. Ultimately, assuming the algebraic properties of the classical Poisson Bracket applies in Quantum Mechanics, leads to the conclusion that the Poisson Bracket is equal to the commutator divided by i hbar.
  • #1
zbnju
1
0
I don't understand why we quantize the field by defining the commutation relation.What's that mean?And what's the difference between the commutation and anticommtation?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.
We quantize a field by the commutation relation because of the definition of the field.
Them's the rules.

The difference between commutation and anti-commutation is symmetry.
Have a go seeing what happens if you try to quantize a field by the anti-commutator.
 
  • #3
Its one way to quantize a system.

If you can get a hold of Dirac's - Principles Of Quantum Machanics he uses that spproach.

Basically it turns out if you assume the algebraic properties of the classical Poisson Bracket still applies in QM you end up with the Poisson Bracket is the same as the commutator divided by i hbar:
http://bolvan.ph.utexas.edu/~vadim/classes/2013s/brackets.pdf

Thanks
Bill
 

Related to Some questions about commutation relation

1. What is a commutation relation?

A commutation relation is a mathematical expression that describes how two operators, representing physical quantities, behave when they are applied in a specific order. In quantum mechanics, commutation relations are used to determine the behavior of observables, such as position and momentum, and their corresponding operators.

2. How are commutation relations used in quantum mechanics?

Commutation relations are used in quantum mechanics to determine the uncertainty in the measurement of two observables. If the commutation relation between two operators is zero, then the observables can be measured simultaneously with no uncertainty. However, if the commutation relation is non-zero, then there is a limit to the precision with which the two observables can be measured simultaneously.

3. What is the significance of non-commuting operators?

Non-commuting operators represent observables that cannot be simultaneously measured with arbitrary precision. This is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics, known as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. It states that the more precisely we know the position of a particle, the less precisely we can know its momentum, and vice versa.

4. How do commutation relations relate to the Schrödinger equation?

Commutation relations play a crucial role in the Schrödinger equation, which describes the time evolution of a quantum system. The commutation relation between the Hamiltonian operator and an observable, such as position or momentum, determines the behavior of the system and the probability of different outcomes of measurements.

5. Can commutation relations be generalized to higher dimensions?

Yes, commutation relations can be generalized to higher dimensions, such as in quantum field theory. In this case, the operators represent fields rather than observables, and the commutation relations describe how these fields interact with each other. The principles of quantum mechanics, including commutation relations, remain the same in higher dimensions, but the mathematical expressions become more complex.

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