Symmetry Groups, Quantum Mechanics and Generalized Hermite Functions

There is compelling evidence that, when a continuous spectrum is present, the natural mathematical setting for quantum mechanics is the rigged Hilbert space rather than just the Hilbert space. In particular, Dirac's bra-ket formalism is fully implemented by the rigged Hilbert space rather than just by the Hilbert space. In this paper, we provide a pedestrian introduction to the role the rigged Hilbert space plays in quantum mechanics, by way of a simple, exactly solvable example. The procedure will be constructive and based on a recent publication. We also provide a thorough discussion on the physical significance of the rigged Hilbert space.

When describing a quantum mechanical system, it is convenient to consider state vectors that do not belong to the Hilbert space. In the first part of this paper, we survey the various formalisms have been introduced for giving a rigorous mathematical justification to this procedure: rigged Hilbert spaces (RHS), scales or lattices of Hilbert spaces (LHS), nested Hilbert spaces, partial inner product spaces. Then we present three types of applications in quantum mechanics, all of them involving spaces of analytic functions. First we present a LHS built around the Bargmann space, thus giving a natural frame for the Fock-Bargmann (or phase space) representation. Then we review the RHS approach to scattering theory (resonances, Gamow vectors, etc.). Finally, we reformulate the Weinberg-van Winter integral equation approach to scattering in the LHS language, and this allows us to prove that it is in fact a particular case of the familiar complex scaling method.

As earlier conjectured by several authors and much later established by Solèr, from the lattice-theory point of view, Quantum Mechanics may be formulated in real, complex or quaternionic Hilbert spaces only. On the other hand, no quantum systems seem to exist that are naturally described in a real or quaternionic Hilbert space. In a previous paper [23], we showed that any quantum system which is elementary from the viewpoint of the Poincaré symmetry group and it is initially described in a real Hilbert space, it can also be described within the standard complex Hilbert space framework. This complex description is unique and more precise than the real one as, for instance, in the complex description, all self-adjoint operators represent observables defined by the symmetry group. The complex picture fulfils the thesis of Solér’s theorem and permits the standard formulation of the quantum Noether’s theorem. The present work is devoted to investigate the remaining case, namely, the possibility of a description of a relativistic elementary quantum system in a quaternionic Hilbert space. Everything is done exploiting recent results of the quaternionic spectral theory that were independently developed. In the initial part of this work, we extend some results of group representation theory and von Neumann algebra theory from the real and complex cases to the quaternionic Hilbert space case. We prove the double commutant theorem also for quaternionic von Neumann algebras (whose proof requires a different procedure with respect to the real and complex cases) and we extend to the quaternionic case a result established in the previous paper concerning the classification of irreducible von Neumann algebras into three categories. In the second part of the paper, we consider an elementary relativistic system within Wigner’s approach defined as a locally-faithful irreducible strongly-continuous unitary representation of the Poincaré group in a quaternionic Hilbert space. We prove that, if the squared-mass operator is non-negative, the system admits a natural, Poincaré invariant and unique up to sign, complex structure which commutes with the whole algebra of observables generated by the representation itself. This complex structure leads to a physically equivalent reformulation of the theory in a complex Hilbert space. Within this complex formulation, differently from what happens in the quaternionic one, all self-adjoint operators represent observables in agreement with Solèr’s thesis, the standard quantum version of Noether theorem may be formulated and the notion of composite system may be given in terms of tensor product of elementary systems. In the third part of the paper, we focus on the physical hypotheses adopted to define a quantum elementary relativistic system relaxing them on the one hand, and making our model physically more general on the other hand. We use a physically more accurate notion of irreducibility regarding the algebra of observables only, we describe the symmetries in terms of automorphisms of the restricted lattice of elementary propositions of the quantum system and we adopt a notion of continuity referred to the states viewed as probability measures on the elementary propositions. Also in this case, the final result proves that there exists a unique (up to sign) Poincaré invariant complex structure making the theory complex and completely fitting into Solèr’s picture. The overall conclusion is that relativistic elementary systems are naturally and better described in complex Hilbert spaces even if starting from a real or quaternionic Hilbert space formulation and this complex description is uniquely fixed by physics.

The quantum phase leads to projective representations of symmetry groups in quantum mechanics. The projective representations are equivalent to the unitary representations of the central extension of the group. A celebrated example is Wigner's formulation of special relativistic quantum mechanics as the projective representations of the inhomogeneous Lorentz group. However, Wigner's formulation makes no mention of the Weyl-Heisenberg group and the hermitian representation of its algebra that are the Heisenberg commutation relations fundamental to quantum physics.We put aside the relativistic symmetry and show that the maximal quantum symmetry that leaves the Heisenberg commutation relations invariant is the projective representations of the conformally scaled inhomogeneous symplectic group. The Weyl-Heisenberg group and noncommutative structure arises directly because the quantum phase requires projective representations.We then consider the relativistic implications of the quantum phase that lead to the Born line element and the projective representations of an inhomogeneous unitary group that defines a noninertial quantum theory. (Understanding noninertial quantum mechanics is a prelude to understanding quantum gravity.) The remarkable properties of this symmetry and its limits are studied.

Classical mechanics historically preceded quantum mechanics and thus far has not been displaced from primary status; the path to construction of quantum theory has remained rooted in classical ideas about objective reality within space and time. Use of a less correct theory as underpinning for a more correct theory not only is unaesthetic but has spawned the perplexing and never-resolved puzzle of measurement. A growing number of physicist-philosophers torture themselves these days over collapse of the quantum-mechanical state vector when measurement is performed. Additionally, pointlike structure of the spacetime manifold underlying local classical fields has endowed quantum theory with mathematical dilemmas. It has been proposed by Gell-Mann and Hartle that objectively-realistic ideas such as measurement may lack a priori status, the predominantly classical present universe having evolved as a relic of the big bang. Other authors have suggested that spacetime itself need not be a priori but may stem from quantum mechanics. Haag has written recently that spacetime without (quantum) events is probably a meaningless concept. Henry Stapp and I have for several years been exploring a simple quantum system devoid of classical underpinning, even spacetime, but admitting within the Hilbert space a special Lie-group-related category of vector known as coherent state. Groups unitarily representable in our Hilbert space include the Poincare group, which relates to 3 + 1 spacetime. Coherent states generally are labeled by parameters associated with unitary group representations, and it has long been recognized that when such parameters become large a classical objective interpretation may result. Stapp and I have been attempting to understand space and time via large coherent-state parameters. Six years ago I presented to this gathering a preliminary report on our enterprise; in this paper I provide an update.

Classical mechanics historically preceded quantum mechanics and thus far has not been displaced from primary status; the path to construction of quantum theory has remained rooted in classical ideas about objective reality within space and time. Use of a less correct theory as underpinning for a more correct theory not only is unaesthetic but has spawned the perplexing and never-resolved puzzle of measurement. A growing number of physicist-philosophers torture themselves these days over collapse of the quantum-mechanical state vector when measurement is performed. Additionally, pointlike structure of the spacetime manifold underlying local classical fields has endowed quantum theory with mathematical dilemmas. It has been proposed by Gell-Mann and Hartle that objectively-realistic ideas such as measurement may lack a priori status, the predominantly classical present universe having evolved as a relic of the big bang. Other authors have suggested that spacetime itself need not be a priori but may stem from quantum mechanics. Haag has written recently that spacetime without (quantum) events is probably a meaningless concept. Henry Stapp and I have for several years been exploring a simple quantum system devoid of classical underpinning, even spacetime, but admitting within the Hilbert space a special Lie-group-related category of vector known as coherent state. Groups unitarily representable in our Hilbert space include the Poincare group, which relates to 3 + 1 spacetime. Coherent states generally are labeled by parameters associated with unitary group representations, and it has long been recognized that when such parameters become large a classical objective interpretation may result. Stapp and I have been attempting to understand space and time via large coherent-state parameters. Six years ago I presented to this gathering a preliminary report on our enterprise; in this paper I provide an update.

We discuss some basic properties of Lie group representations in rigged Hilbert spaces. In particular, we show that a differentiable representation in a rigged Hilbert space may be obtained as the projective limit of a family of continuous representations in a nested scale of Hilbert spaces. We also construct a couple of examples illustrative of the key features of group representations in rigged Hilbert spaces. Finally, we establish a simple criterion for the integrability of an operator Lie algebra in a rigged Hilbert space.

Quantum mechanical irrebersibility

We consider an arbitrary selfadjoint operator on a separable Hilbert space. To this operator we construct an expansion in generalized eigenfunctions in which the original Hilbert space is decomposed as a direct integral of Hilbert spaces consisting of general eigenfunctions. This automatically gives a Plancherel type formula. For suitable operators on metric measure spaces we discuss some growth restrictions on the generalized eigenfunctions. For Laplacians on locally finite graphs the generalized eigenfunctions are exactly the solutions of the corresponding difference equation.

In order to provide a detailed explanation of what quantum physics is to non-researchers and to introduce the rapidly developing scientific technologies based on quantum phenomena unique to light and matter, Michael G. Reiner has narrated the facts of quantum physics, the principles of quantum physics, the applications of quantum physics, and the problems and controversies that quantum physics needs to solve, helping the readers going deep into and make out the worldview of quantum physics———the probability presented in the quantum world presents, which conflicts with our intuitive thinking. He has also introduced the widespread applications of quantum physics. The characteristic of this work is, in simple and lucid language, to make every effort to enable a reader, who knows nothing about physics but is full of curiosity and perseverance, to have the ability to comprehend and follow the logical thinking we use in explaining the correctness of quantum theory in the precess of reading it.

As the field of medicine grows and expands, new scientific developments hold great promise for improving quality of care, clinical research, and the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Quantum physics is a promising field that intersects with medicine much more than originally understood. In terms of diagnosing different diseases, incorporating quantum mechanics into the study of medicine can allow for efficient diagnosis before symptoms even arise in a patient. Applying theory-based mathematical structures that describe neuron transmission throughout the brain and mind on a quantum scale can help us to better understand neurological diseases in patients. Quantum theory can even give plausible explanations for subtle DNA changes and even telomere reduction in patients who develop cancer. Utilizing quantum theory in the field of medicine can help in understanding and applying treatments for a multitude of different diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or diverse types of cancer, and even expand upon efficient and reliable diagnosis in clinical settings. Quantum physics is a pertinent advancing field that may have a significant impact on expanding medical care and treatment in the near future. In this review, the application of quantum physics in medicine is discussed.

After a review of the arrows of time, we describe the possibilities of a time-asymmetry in quantum theory. Whereas Hilbert space quantum mechanics is time-symmetric, the rigged Hilbert space formulation, which arose from Dirac’s braket formalism, allows the choice of asymmetric boundary conditions analogous to the retarded solutions of the Maxwell equations for the radiation arrow of time. This led to irreversibility on the microphysical level as exemplified by decaying states or resonances. Resonances are mathematically represented by Gamow kets, functionals over a space of very well-behaved (Hardy class) vectors, which have been chosen by a boundary condition (outgoing for decaying states). Gamow states have all the properties that one heuristically needs for quasistable states. For them a Golden Rule can be derived from the fundamental probabilities P(t)=Tr(Λ(t)WGamow (t0)) that fulfills the time-asymmetry condition t≥t 0 which could not be realized in the Hilbert space.KeywordsHilbert SpaceDecay StateGeneralize EigenvectorHardy ClassGamow VectorThese keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.

In certain problems in model building and Bayesian analysis, the results end up in forms connected with generalized zeta functions. This necessitates the introduction of an extended form of the generalized zeta function. Such an extended form of the zeta function is introduced in this paper. In model building situations and in various types of applications in physical, biological and social sciences and engineering, a basic model taken is the Gaussian model in the univariate, multivariate and matrix-variate situations. A real scalar variable logistic model behaves like a Gaussian model but with a thicker tail. Hence, for many of industrial applications, a logistic model is preferred to a Gaussian model. When we study the properties of a logistic model in the multivariate and matrix-variate cases, in the real and complex domains, invariably the problem ends up in the extended zeta function defined in this paper. Several such extended logistic models are considered. It is also found that certain Bayesian considerations also end up in the extended zeta function introduced in this paper. Several such Bayesian models in the multivariate and matrix-variate cases in the real and complex domains are discussed. It is stated in a recent paper that “Quantum Mechanics is just the Bayesian theory generalized to the complex Hilbert space”. Hence, the models developed in this paper are expected to have applications in quantum mechanics, communication theory, physics, statistics and related areas.

The path integral is a method that often used in the quantum problems calculation. For example; the calculation of quantum system energy that has complex potential form. The method gives more easily than perturbation method. The method is also used to derive Green function, which usually used Fourier transformation. The Green function has widely application in quantum physics, since it used to compute solution of inhomogen differential equation as Schrodinger equation. In the particle physics, the Green function used as propagator in Feynman’s diagram. Considering the importance of Green function, and the powerfull of path integral method, in the paper, the method used to derive the formula of Green function for quantum harmonic oscillator system. The system has widely application to give more information of physical phenomena, for example, the atomic vibration in solid state. The result was also compared with Fourier transformation method and both give the same result as hoped.

Over the years, the application of quantum physics in medicine has led to a greater understanding of the cellular processes within the human body. A dimension of quantum physics is vibration medicine. There is no distinction between energy and matter in quantum physics, and all molecules are constantly in motion, creating resonance. This resonance is critical to comprehending how subtle energy guides and maintains human health and fitness [1]. Subtle energies form the core of examination of the physiological and anatomical maps we examine in modern medicine. Evidence-based literature is present that depicts the relationship between subtle energies, mind-body connections, and electromagnetic waves [2]. Every cell in the body resonates and every part of the body has its sonic signature i.e. the sound of the cells of the heart is different from that of the cells of the lungs. It’s also seen those different forms of cell illnesses that affect humans have a unique frequency spectrum [3]. Subtle energy can be used to detect changes in the resonance of cells of the diseased organs and predict future organ dysfunction in patients with chronic diseases e.g. diabetes, and hypertension. In Pakistan, this diagnostic modality isn’t currently used, but it holds the potential to maximize preventative care and lessen the burden on its healthcare system. Hydrogels are cross-linked hydrophilic polymers similar to the extracellular matrix and adhere firmly to tissues [4]. The use of hydrogels in bio-medicine is of great interest [5]. However, there is insufficient literature that depicts the use of hydrogels in predicting future organ dysfunction. Zwitterionic Polydopamine-clay-poly [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide (PDA-clay-PSMBA), a novel hydrogel, can be potentially used to predict future organ dysfunction. The novel hydrogel can adhere to a variety of body tissues with the strength of 19.4 KPa (in the heart). It retains firm adhesion on wet and underwater tissues and the adhesion is stable with heart beating and lung breathing. The hydrogel sensors monitor the dynamic vibrations of the organs, sending electrical impulses to the computer through wireless transmission. Excellent electrical conductivity, sensitivity, and robust adhesion allow it to detect subtle vibrations in the tissues. Moreover, the novel hydrogel is highly stretchable, self-healing, and bio-compatible [4]. Therefore, it holds considerable promise in detecting subtle vibrations which can then be used to predict future organ damage. More studies are needed to inspire vibratory medicine towards yielding results of possible organ dysfunctions by quantifying subtle vibrations.