Arrange the following steps in the correct order for the evolution of a quantum state according to the principles of quantum mechanics: A) Apply the Hamiltonian operator to the wave function, B) Determine the initial quantum state of the system, C) Solve the Schrödinger equation to find the time evolution, D) Analyze the resulting wave function to extract physical predictions.

First, we need to know the starting state of the system. Other options are incorrect because This choice assumes we can solve the equation before we even know where the system starts; It puts the Schrödinger equation before the Hamiltonian, which is like writing the rules of a game before knowing the players.