Calculate scattering amplitude by delta function potential

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the scattering amplitude f(θ) in the context of a delta function potential δ(r) within the framework of the Born approximation. The problem is set in spherical coordinates, and participants are exploring the implications of integrating a delta function in this scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to insert the delta function into the scattering amplitude formula but encounters difficulties due to the integral's limits starting at zero. Some participants question the dimensionality of the delta function and suggest considering its three-dimensional form. Others propose calculating the Fourier transform of the delta function to derive the amplitude.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering insights and alternative approaches. There is no explicit consensus yet, but some guidance has been provided regarding the dimensionality of the delta function and the potential use of Fourier transforms.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses frustration over the lack of useful formulas in textbooks and the challenges posed by the integral's limits. There is an indication of confusion regarding the application of the delta function in this context.

liumylife
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Homework Statement


I need to give scattering amplitude f(θ) in Born approximation to the first order in the case of delta function scattering potential δ(r). The problem is in spherical coordinate and I'll give major equation concerned.

Homework Equations


The equation for scattering amplitude is given by
f(θ) = C ∫_0^∞ dr rV(r)sinqr
where q is only a function of θ, so treat it as a constant in this formula, and C is just another constant, too.

The only issue left is to insert the delta function into the formula, and this is exactly the problem: no equation can be used in such case where the integral range begin just at zero.

The Attempt at a Solution



I look every textbook to find useful formulas, found nothing.
And I tried to create a new function such that the integral range is from -∞ to ∞,
then half the new integral to obtain a result, but it achieved nothing since it gives zero, so help me, please!
 
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Your problem is that x δ(x) is zero everywhere, so the integral vanishes. Are you sure that delta function is one-dimensional? That seems strange. Perhaps it's 3-dimensional instead. Try massaging the identity [tex]\int dV \delta^3(r) = 1[/tex] to see the magic happen.
 
that is not the scattering amplitude with any potential,use the three dimensional delta function and calculate the Fourier transform of it to obtain amplitude.
 
Thank you for reply.
By the way, how do you make the integral sign so large? Latex? I had tried to type in the Latex code but it didn't work.
 
This seems a better path, I'll try, thank you.
 

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