Operator ordering in quantum optics theory and the development of Dirac s symbolic method
Hong-Yi Fan · Journal of Optics B Quantum and Semiclassical Optics · 2003
We present a general unified approach for arranging quantum operators of optical fields into ordered products (normal ordering, antinormal ordering, Weyl ordering (or symmetric ordering)) by fashioning Dirac's symbolic method and representation theory. We propose the technique of integration within an ordered product (IWOP) of operators to realize our goal. The IWOP makes Dirac's representation theory and the symbolic method more transparent and consequently more easily understood. The beauty of Dirac's symbolic method is further revealed. Various applications of the IWOP technique, such as in developing the entangled state representation theory, nonlinear coherent state theory, Wigner function theory, etc, are presented.