Spin Current: The Contribution of Spin to the Probability Current of Nonrelativistic Particles with Spin

Authors

Philip Du Toit, Brigham Young University
Dr. Jean-Francois Van Huele, Brigham Young University

Keywords

spin current, nonrelativistic particles, probability current

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Physics and Astronomy

Abstract

Introductory quantum mechanics texts seldom treat the quantum mechanical probability current for nonrelativistic particles with spin. The procedure for calculating probability current is most often presented in relation to particles described by the Schrödinger equation, that is particles without spin.1 In later chapters, after having introduced readers to the Pauli equation and its description of particles with spin, the authors rarely return to the topic of probability current. This omission may cause readers to incorrectly infer that the calculation of the probability current for particles with spin follows the same line of argument as is used for particles without spin.

Recommended Citation

Toit, Philip Du and Van Huele, Dr. Jean-Francois (2014) "Spin Current: The Contribution of Spin to the Probability Current of Nonrelativistic Particles with Spin," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 1266.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1266