The density matrix is defined as ρψ := |ψ(t)⟩⟨ψ(t)|⟨ψ(t)|ψ(t)⟩
iℏddtρψ = [H,ρψ]
Why are the signs in eqs. (S) and (H) opposite?
Isn't A an operator like ρψ, although time independent? They belong to the same operator space, so I don't think I can apply duality, but I know that A operate on the states to give us the expectation value through the relation Tr(ρψA)
Answer
Actually, you can use duality:
the normal states of quantum mechanics are objects of the (unique) predual of the von Neumann algebra of quantum observables.
Using a concrete example: if the algebra of observables are the bounded operators on a Hilbert space, the predual are the trace class operators. Of them, the normal states are the ones positive, self-adjoint and of trace norm one.
It is then clear that by mutual duality the evolution on observables/states induces the evolution of states/observables; and that takes into account of the "minus sign" in the generator that is different between the two.
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