Inconsistencies in the description of a quantum system with a finite number of bound states by a compact dynamical group
Julio Guerrero, V. Aldaya
In a recent paper (Aldaya V and Guerrero J 2005 J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 38 6939 ) it is shown that the bound states of the Modified Pöschl–Teller potential should be described by the non-compact dynamical group SU (1, 1) instead of the usual compact group SU (2). Here we prove that SU (2) cannot be the dynamical group for a potential with a finite number of bound states on the basis of the Modified Pöschl–Teller potential and the Morse potential. This suggests that a quantum system with a continuum spectrum and a finite number of bound states should be described, both in the continuum and the discrete spectrum, by a non-compact dynamical group instead of a compact one.
Journal of Physics A Mathematical and General•Apr 19, 2006•6 citations