Calculating Spin Operators for Spin 1/2 Systems

In summary, the conversation discusses a spin 1/2 system and the expressions for the operators Sx, Sy, and Sz in the basis composed of their eigenkets. It also mentions the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of these operators in this basis. Additionally, the conversation mentions writing a matrix corresponding to the operator S_ in the basis of the eigenkets of Sx, specifically the eigenket |Sx;+->. The conversation also prompts for further clarification on the operator's position in the expression.
  • #1
aliveinmoscow
3
0
1. 1) Consider a spin 1/2 system...

a) write expressions for the operators Sx Sy Sz in the basis composed of eigenkets of Sz
b) Write eigenvalues of Sx Sy Sz
c) Write eigenvectors of Sx and Sy in this basis

2) Write a matric corresponding to the operator S_ in the basis composed of the eigenkets of the operator Sx, |Sx;+->




2. Homework Equations : None



3. the results i have so far are:

1 = |+> <+|+|-><-|
Sz=h(bar)/2[|+> <+|+|-><-|]
 
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  • #2
Where you write <+|+|->, what does the center + refer to? Usually an operator is located in that position.

For a start, you should write out the eigenkets of S_z. What do S_x, S_y and S_z do when acted on these eigenkets?
 

Related to Calculating Spin Operators for Spin 1/2 Systems

1. What is a spin operator for a spin 1/2 system?

A spin operator is a mathematical representation of the angular momentum of a particle with spin 1/2. It is typically denoted by the letter S and acts on the wavefunction of the particle to determine its spin state.

2. How do you calculate the spin operator for a spin 1/2 system?

The spin operator for a spin 1/2 system can be calculated using the Pauli spin matrices, which are a set of three 2x2 matrices that represent the three possible spin states of a particle with spin 1/2. These matrices can be combined in different ways to create spin operators for different directions and components of spin.

3. What are the properties of spin operators for spin 1/2 systems?

Spin operators for spin 1/2 systems have several important properties, including commutativity, hermiticity, and unitarity. This means that they can be used to calculate the spin of a particle in any direction, and that the results will always be consistent and physically meaningful.

4. How are spin operators used in quantum mechanics?

Spin operators are an essential tool in quantum mechanics for describing the behavior of particles with spin. They are used to calculate the spin state of a particle, as well as to study its interactions with other particles and external fields.

5. Are there any limitations to using spin operators for spin 1/2 systems?

While spin operators are a powerful tool for studying spin in quantum mechanics, they do have some limitations. For example, they only apply to particles with spin 1/2 and cannot be used for particles with other spin values. Additionally, they do not take into account relativistic effects, which can be important for high-speed particles.

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