Assume that H is an operator valid on some hilbert space, N, with nondegenerate eigenvalues, E_n, whose corresponding eigenbasis is {g_n}. If f is a vector that lies on N, then f can be expanded as a linear combination of the eigenbasis of H. Now mathematically, we can say that
H|f> = sum(n, E_n*c_n*|g_n>😉.
This implies that H changes the the vector, but it is still expanded in the entire eigenbasis. However, if we consider this problem from a physical perspective, |f> collapses into one of the eigenstates it is expressed in, or
H|f> ---> E_n*c_n|g_n>
where there is no summation. Which view is correct?
I am under the impression that an observation on a vector returns a single value. If f is expressed in the eigenbasis of H, and the eigenvalues of H are non-degenerate, wouldn't this force f to return an eigenvalue of H, and therefore collapse it into an eigenstate of H.
For instance, assume |f> = c_1|g_1> + c_2|g_2>.
Also assume P is an operator such that
P|g_1> = 1
P|g_2> = -1
Then P|f> must return either 1 or -1, correct? Then for instance, if P|f> = 1 wouldn't |f> have collapsed into |g_1>?
This is where it gets confusing for me. I understand That H|f>=E|f> describes the evolution of the wave-function. However, I was also under the impression that a hermitian operator acting on a state-vector can be seen as an observation. I am having a hard time making these two views coincide. I am very confused by all this, sorry...
Originally posted by amolv06Umm... I'm not quite sure but I don't think you can see that as an observation. However, a hermitian operator is an observable, if you take the expectation value of H you get the energy of the system.
This is where it gets confusing for me. I understand That H|f>=E|f> describes the evolution of the wave-function. However, I was also under the impression that a hermitian operator acting on a state-vector can be seen as an observation. I am having a hard time making these two views coincide. I am very confused by all this, sorry...
And the more confused you get, the more you understand... 😉