Eigenvalue Equation

Creator
Creator
Seonglae Cho
Created
Created
2021 Aug 31 7:31
Editor
Edited
Edited
2025 Mar 25 10:27
Refs
Refs
The eigenvalue equation appears in fundamental physics equations like the Lagrangian equations in classical mechanics and Schrödinger's equation in quantum mechanics.

Applications in Quantum Mechanics

  • Eigenvalues represent observable measurements in quantum systems
  • Eigenvectors correspond to state functions
  • Before measurement, quantum states exist as linear combinations of eigenvectors

Applications in Classical Mechanics

The Lagrangian equation provides an intuitive understanding of motion by treating Newton's equations as an eigenvalue problem. In this context:
  • Eigenvalues represent generalized coordinates
  • Physical motion is expressed as linear combinations of these coordinates
  • By solving the eigenvalue equation and understanding the physical meaning of these coordinates, complex motions can be understood as combinations of simple movements
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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