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Angular momentum operator
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Everything about Angular Momentum Operator totally explained

In quantum mechanics, the angular momentum operator is an operator analogous to classical angular momentum. The angular momentum operator plays a central role in the theory of atomic physics and other quantum problems involving rotational symmetry. In both classical and quantum mechanical systems, angular momentum (together with linear momentum and energy) is one of the three fundamental properties of motion.

Intuitive meaning

Angular momentum quantifies the rotational aspect of motion. Like energy and linear momentum, angular momentum in an isolated system is conserved. The concept of an angular momentum operator is necessary in quantum mechanics, as calculations of angular momentum must be made upon a wave function, rather than on a point or rigid body as classical calculations entail. This is because at the scale of quantum mechanics, the matter analyzed is best described by a wave equation or probability amplitude, rather than as a collection of fixed points or as a rigid body. Vector calculus is used in calculations of angular momentum, as angular momentum has compenents in each of the three spatial dimensions.

Mathematical definition

Angular momentum L is mathematically defined as the cross product of a wave function's position operator (r) and momentum operator (p):
» mathbf( heta,phi)

are the spherical harmonics.

Further Information

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