Before approaching this topic, students should:

• Have a solid understanding of postulates 1-5 of quantum mechanics. Exposure to the sixth postulate is helpful as well.
• Know that commuting operators have the same basis for resulting eigenvectors.
• Know how to manipulate the polar and rectangular form of complex numbers.
• Understand the difference between an overall phase and relative phase in quantum states.
• Previous experience with the Schrodinger equation is helpful but not necessary.