The Moyal representation for spin (Q1107063)

The phase-space approach to spin is developed from two basic principles, SU(2)-covariance and traciality, as a theory of Wigner functions on the sphere. The twisted product of phase-space functions is related to group convolution on SU(2) by means of a Fourier transform theory on the coadjoint orbits, which yields the Plancherel-Parseval formula. Coherent spin states provide an alternative route to the same phase-space description of spin. The Wigner functions for spin states and transitions are exhibited up to \(j=2\). It is shown that for Hamiltonians which arise from time-dependent magnetic fields, the quantum spin dynamics is given entirely by the classical motion on the sphere. The Majorana formula becomes transparent in the Moyal representation.