(i) Write the Hamiltonian for the harmonic oscillator,
H=2mp2+21mω2x2
in terms of creation and annihilation operators, defined by
a†=(2ℏmω)21(x−imωp),a=(2ℏmω)21(x+imωp)
Obtain an expression for [a†,a] by using the usual commutation relation between p and x. Deduce the quantized energy levels for this system.
(ii) Define the number operator, N, in terms of creation and annihilation operators, a† and a. The normalized eigenvector of N with eigenvalue n is ∣n⟩. Show that n≥0.
Determine a∣n⟩ and a†∣n⟩ in the basis defined by {∣n⟩}.
Show that
a†mam∣n⟩=⎩⎪⎪⎨⎪⎪⎧(n−m)!n!∣n⟩,0,m≤nm>n
Verify the relation
∣0⟩⟨0∣=m=0∑m!1(−1)ma†mam
by considering the action of both sides of the equation on an arbitrary basis vector.