What are the quantum numbers used to label helium atom eigenfunctions?

In summary, there have been various studies on the structure of helium atom eigenfunctions, with quantum numbers such as L, S, J, and MJ being used to label them. Non-perturbative approaches, such as variational methods, have also been used, resulting in accurate results. Specific studies include those by Drake and Van in 1994 and Yan and Drake in 1995. Additionally, the semiclassical theory of the helium atom may also be relevant.
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HomogenousCow
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Are there any results on the structure of the helium atom eigenfunctions? By this I'm referring to the non-perturbative structure of the eigenfunctions, AKA what are the quantum numbers that one would use to label the eigenfunctions?
 
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I am nit sure what you mean by "non-perturbative," as it is a 3-body problem, hence no analytical solutions.

Using the base Hamiltonian, the quantum numbers you get are those that make up the term symbol, L, S, J, and MJ.
 
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There are also variational methods. With suitably chosen basis functions you can get quite accurate results -- see for example chapter 3 in "Intermediate Quantum Mechanics" by Bethe and Jackiw.
 
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HomogenousCow said:
Are there any results on the structure of the helium atom eigenfunctions? By this I'm referring to the non-perturbative structure of the eigenfunctions, AKA what are the quantum numbers that one would use to label the eigenfunctions?
  • Drake, G. W. F., & Van, Z. C., Variational eigenvalues for the S states of helium. Chemical Physics Letters 229 (1994), 486-490.
  • Yan, Z. C., & Drake, G. W. F., High precision calculation of fine structure splittings in helium and He-like ions. Physical review letters, 74 (1995), 4791.
 
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HomogenousCow said:
Are there any results on the structure of the helium atom eigenfunctions? By this I'm referring to the non-perturbative structure of the eigenfunctions, AKA what are the quantum numbers that one would use to label the eigenfunctions?
The following may be relevant: http://www.scholarpedia.org/article/Semiclassical_theory_of_helium_atom
 

What is a helium atom eigenfunction?

A helium atom eigenfunction is a mathematical function that describes the probability of finding an electron in a specific energy state within a helium atom. It is a solution to the Schrödinger equation, which is used to describe the behavior of electrons in atoms.

How are helium atom eigenfunctions related to energy levels?

Helium atom eigenfunctions are directly related to energy levels. Each eigenfunction corresponds to a specific energy level, and the higher the energy level, the more complex the eigenfunction becomes. The eigenfunctions also determine the shape of the electron orbitals within the atom.

What is the significance of helium atom eigenfunctions?

Helium atom eigenfunctions are significant because they provide a way to understand and predict the behavior of electrons in a helium atom. They also help to explain the stability and reactivity of helium and other elements.

How are helium atom eigenfunctions calculated?

Helium atom eigenfunctions are calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which is a complex mathematical equation that takes into account the properties of the electrons, the nucleus, and the forces between them. This equation is solved using advanced computational methods.

Can helium atom eigenfunctions be observed?

No, helium atom eigenfunctions cannot be directly observed. They are mathematical descriptions of the behavior of electrons in a helium atom and do not have a physical form. However, their effects can be observed through experiments and calculations.

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