On infinite-dimensional state spaces
- Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo N2L 2Y5 (Canada)
It is well known that the canonical commutation relation [x, p]=i can be realized only on an infinite-dimensional Hilbert space. While any finite set of experimental data can also be explained in terms of a finite-dimensional Hilbert space by approximating the commutation relation, Occam's razor prefers the infinite-dimensional model in which [x, p]=i holds on the nose. This reasoning one will necessarily have to make in any approach which tries to detect the infinite-dimensionality. One drawback of using the canonical commutation relation for this purpose is that it has unclear operational meaning. Here, we identify an operationally well-defined context from which an analogous conclusion can be drawn: if two unitary transformations U, V on a quantum system satisfy the relation V{sup -1}U{sup 2}V=U{sup 3}, then finite-dimensionality entails the relation UV{sup -1}UV=V{sup -1}UVU; this implication strongly fails in some infinite-dimensional realizations. This is a result from combinatorial group theory for which we give a new proof. This proof adapts to the consideration of cases where the assumed relation V{sup -1}U{sup 2}V=U{sup 3} holds only up to {epsilon} and then yields a lower bound on the dimension.
- OSTI ID:
- 22163003
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Mathematical Physics, Vol. 54, Issue 5; Other Information: (c) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0022-2488
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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