Spectral analysis of generators of representations of the group U(3) (Q1119756)

Given an irreducible unitary representation of the unitary group U(3) on a vector space V let J be the operator on V corresponding under the representation to the infinitesimal generator of rotations about the \(x_ 1\) axis in \(R^ 3\). Using a parametrization of the Gelfand-Zetlin basis for V by functions of two variables on an integer lattice of a suitable rectangle, the eigenvalue equation for J is shown to be equivalent to a second order partial difference operator. An explicit construction of eigenfunctions is sketched, giving them in terms of certain orthogonal polynomials of two (discrete) variables, related with the known Krawtchouk polynomials. Subsequently the matrix elements of the representation (the so called d-functions of Wigner) are expressed in terms of these polynomials.