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Probabilities for Different Spin-1 Stern Gerlach Analyzers

Keywords: Probabilities, Fourth Postulate, Quantum Mechanics, Stern-Gerlach Device, Small groups

Highlights of the activity

  1. Students are placed in small groups and asked to find the probability of measuring an initial state $\vert \psi \rangle$ in the new state $\vert \delta \rangle$, where $\psi$ or $\delta$ can be spin 1, 0, or -1 in the x,y, or z-direction.
  2. Time permitted, students could also be challenged to find the spin 1,0, and/or -1 states in the x or y-direction in terms of the z-basis using the probabilities measured in this experiment.

Reasons to spend class time on the activity

Before performing this activity, students are typically very familiar with the Spin-$\frac{1}{2}$ system and the expected probabilities for any of the x,y, or z-oriented analyzers. This activity is useful for introducing students to the probabilities of measuring spin states in the x, y, and z-directions. Students will also commonly practice using the fourth postulate of quantum mechanics to compare the theoretical calculations of probabilities to experimental measurements.

Reflections

Instructor's Guide

Student Handouts

spspinoneanalyzerhand.doc

spspinoneanalyzerhand.pdf

spspinoneanalyzerhand.tex


Authors: Corinne Manogue
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