EIGENSTATES Meaning and
Definition
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Eigenstates, in the field of quantum mechanics, refers to a concept that underlies the behavior of certain physical systems. Specifically, it characterizes the stationary states or wavefunctions of a quantum mechanical system that correspond to definite values of observable physical quantities, such as position, momentum, energy, or angular momentum.
An eigenstate is a particular state of a quantum system in which a measurement of an observable will always yield a specific value with certainty. In other words, the system is in an eigenstate when the result of a measurement is guaranteed to be the same as the corresponding eigenvalue of the observable being measured.
Eigenstates are usually represented mathematically as solutions to the Schrödinger equation or other quantum mechanical equations, which describe the time evolution and behavior of quantum systems. These solutions are characterized by their energy levels, quantized values, or other observable properties determined by the specific equation.
The concept of eigenstates is closely related to the principle of superposition in quantum mechanics, as a general quantum state can often be represented as a combination or linear superposition of multiple eigenstates. When a measurement is made, this superposition collapses into one of the eigenstates, and the corresponding eigenvalue is obtained.
Eigenstates play a crucial role in the understanding and prediction of quantum phenomena, providing a framework for analyzing and calculating the behavior of particles, atoms, and molecules on the microscopic scale. They are an essential component of quantum mechanics, helping to explain the wave-particle duality and the probabilistic nature of quantum measurements.
Common Misspellings for EIGENSTATES
- wigenstates
- sigenstates
- digenstates
- rigenstates
- 4igenstates
- 3igenstates
- eugenstates
- ejgenstates
- ekgenstates
- eogenstates
- e9genstates
- e8genstates
- eifenstates
- eivenstates
- eibenstates
- eihenstates
- eiyenstates
- eitenstates
- eigwnstates
- eigsnstates
Etymology of EIGENSTATES
The word "eigenstates" is derived from the German word "Eigenzustände". The term "eigen" in German means "own" or "inherent", while "zustände" translates to "states". Therefore, the combined term "eigenzustände" can be directly translated as "own states" or "inherent states". In the field of quantum mechanics, eigenstates refer to the specific states of a physical system that possess quantifiable properties corresponding to observable quantities. The adoption of the term into English as "eigenstates" has retained its original meaning.
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