We describe an algebra G of diagrams which faithfully gives a diagrammatic representation of the structures of both the Heisenberg-Weyl algebra H - the associative algebra of the creation and annihilation operators of quantum mechanics - and U(L_H),
the enveloping algebra of the Heisenberg Lie algebra L_H. We show explicitly how G may be endowed with the structure of a Hopf algebra, which is also mirrored in the structure of U(L_H). While both H and U(L_H) are images of G, the algebra G has a richer structure and therefore embodies a finer combinatorial realization of the creation-annihilation system, of which it provides a concrete model.
The Heisenberg-Weyl algebra, which underlies virtually all physical representations of Quantum Theory, is considered from the combinatorial point of view. We provide a concrete model of the algebra in terms of paths on a lattice with some decompositi
on rules. We also discuss the rook problem on the associated Ferrers board; this is related to the calculus in the normally ordered basis. From this starting point we explore a combinatorial underpinning of the Heisenberg-Weyl algebra, which offers novel perspectives, methods and applications.
We show that the formalism of hybrid polynomials, interpolating between Hermite and Laguerre polynomials, is very useful in the study of Motzkin numbers and central trinomial coefficients. These sequences are identified as special values of hybrid po
lynomials, a fact which we use to derive their generalized forms and new identities satisfied by them.
We discuss a general combinatorial framework for operator ordering problems by applying it to the normal ordering of the powers and exponential of the boson number operator. The solution of the problem is given in terms of Bell and Stirling numbers e
numerating partitions of a set. This framework reveals several inherent relations between ordering problems and combinatorial objects, and displays the analytical background to Wicks theorem. The methodology can be straightforwardly generalized from the simple example given herein to a wide class of operators.
