Speaker
James Freericks
Description
In 1930, Born and Jordan wrote a quantum mechanics textbook. In that work, they used a strategy to convert the harmonic oscillator equations of motion into two uncoupled first-order equations. In classical mechanics, this mapping explicitly introduces complex numbers into the motion of a harmonic oscillator and directly shows how to solve for the position and momentum observables. I will explain how this mapping works and show how to demystify complex numbers use in damped-driven harmonic oscillators. As an added bonus, this approach also shows how energy varies with time and makes a strong connection to quantum mechanics.
| How would you like to present your contribution? | Live in Kraków (time slot to be allotted based on the programme) |
|---|---|
| Target education level | University |
| Category | Formal Education |
Author
James Freericks
Co-authors
Mr
Jason Tran
(Georgetown University)
Prof.
Leanne Doughty
(Georgetown University)
