Green's function calculation of an infinite lattice with periodicity in 1D

In summary, the conversation discusses computing the Green's function matrix of an infinite lattice with periodicity in 1 dimension in the tight binding model. The speaker mentions using matrix ##V## and ##W## to describe the hopping of electrons within and between unit cells. They also mention using Fourier transformation and diagonalization to calculate the energy band structure. The question is then raised about numerically calculating the Green's function matrix for this system, particularly for a subsystem within the infinite lattice. The concept of self-energy is introduced as a helpful tool for considering an infinite system.
  • #1
paulhj
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TL;DR Summary
How do I numerically compute the Green's function matrix for an infinitely long lattice with some complicated unit cell?
I am currently trying to compute the Green's function matrix of an infinite lattice with a periodicity in 1 dimension in the tight binding model. I have matrix ##V## that describes the hopping of electrons within each unit cell, and a matrix ##W## that describes the hopping between unit cells.
By Fourier transforming and diagonalising the resulting matrix I have been able to calculate the energy band structure of the system as a function of momentum in the direction of periodicity. Is there then a way of numerically calculating the Green's function matrix of this system, similar to how you can calculate the Green's function for an infinite chain? Any help or recommended reading is much appreciated.
 
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  • #2
For a finite system, computing Green's function is easy: to compute (zI-H)^-1. If you are only interested in a subsystem of a finite system, the concept of self-energy can be introduced. The self-energy is more helpful when you considering an infinite system. I suppose you want the Green's function of a subsystem inside the infinite lattice, then the problem is an embedding problem: the environment around the subsystem provide self-energy to the subsystem in question, the self-energy can be computed from the surface green function of the semi-infinite system.
 

1. What is a Green's function?

A Green's function is a mathematical tool used in solving partial differential equations. It represents the response of a system to a point source or impulse, and can be used to solve for the behavior of the system under more complex inputs.

2. How is a Green's function calculated for an infinite lattice with periodicity in 1D?

The calculation of a Green's function for an infinite lattice with periodicity in 1D involves solving the lattice's Schrödinger equation and using Fourier analysis to find the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the system. These are then used to construct the Green's function.

3. What is the significance of periodicity in 1D Green's function calculations?

Periodicity in 1D Green's function calculations is important because it allows for the system to be described by a discrete set of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, making the calculation more tractable. It also reflects the periodic nature of the lattice structure.

4. Can Green's function calculations be used for systems with non-periodic boundary conditions?

Yes, Green's function calculations can be used for systems with non-periodic boundary conditions. However, the calculation becomes more complicated and may require numerical methods instead of analytical solutions.

5. How are Green's function calculations useful in materials science and engineering?

Green's function calculations are useful in materials science and engineering because they can provide insight into the physical properties and behaviors of materials at the atomic level. They can also be used to predict and design new materials with specific properties.

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