A generalized Hamiltonian formalism unifying classical and quantum mechanics

Alessandro Sergi

The symplectic structure of quantum commutators is first unveiled and then exploited to describe generalized non-Hamiltonian brackets in quantum mechanics. It is easily recognized that quantum-classical systems are described by a particular realization of such a bracket. In light of previous work, this paper explains a unified approach to classical and quantum-classical non-Hamiltonian dynamics. In order to illustrate the use of non-Hamiltonian commutators, it is shown how to define thermodynamic constraints in quantum-classical systems. In particular, quantum-classical Nosé-Hoover equations of motion and the associated stationary density matrix are derived. The non-Hamiltonian commutators for both Nosé-Hoover chains and Nosé-Andersen (constant-pressure, constant-temperature) dynamics are also given. Perspectives of the formalism are discussed.

Domenico Giulini

Karim P. Y. Thébault

This Element explores the formal and conceptual foundations of phase space formulations of classical and quantum mechanics. It provides an overview of the core mathematical and physical content of Hamiltonian mechanics, stochastic phase space mechanics, contact Hamiltonian mechanics, and open and closed quantum mechanics on phase space. The formal material is unified via three interpretative themes relating to structured possibility spaces, Liouville's theorem and its failure, and the classical and quantum notions of open and closed systems. This Element book is intended for researchers and graduate students in the philosophy and foundations of physics with an interest in the conceptual foundations of physical theory.

Yi‐Fang Chang

Combining the known results in mechanics and relativity, the unified four-dimensional generalized formalism of various equations and formulas in classical physics and quantum mechanics are discussed. In usual cases, they possess good symmetry. From this some new results are derived. But under a certain condition the symmetry is violated. Moreover, the mechanical wave theory, new operators and nonlinear equations are connected.