Can we use this approximation for k_D<<k_F?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of an approximation in the context of wave vectors, specifically when the Debye wave vector \( k_D \) is much smaller than the Fermi wave vector \( k_F \). Participants explore the mathematical expressions related to this approximation and clarify the ranges of \( k \) being considered.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an approximation involving the difference between kinetic energy terms related to \( k_F \) and \( k \), suggesting it simplifies to a linear form in terms of \( |k_F - k| \).
  • Another participant questions the range of \( k \) and proposes a correction to the expression, indicating that it should reflect the absolute value correctly and that the signs do not affect the overall result.
  • There is a clarification regarding the neglect of higher-order terms in the expansion, contingent on the assumption that \( \delta k \) is much smaller than \( k_D \) and \( k_F \).
  • A later reply acknowledges a mistake in the earlier expression and reiterates the importance of the absolute value notation in the context of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the validity of the approximation under the specified conditions, but there are differing views on the correct formulation of the expressions and the treatment of signs in the equations.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the importance of the assumptions regarding the ranges of \( k \) and the conditions under which certain terms can be neglected, which remain unresolved in the discussion.

Petar Mali
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For [tex]k_D<<k_F[/tex]

[tex]|\frac{\hbar^2k^2_F}{2m}-\frac{\hbar^2k^2}{2m}|\approx \frac{\hbar^2k_F}{m}|k_F-k|[/tex]

Where [tex]k[/tex] goes from [tex]k-k_D[/tex] to [tex]k+k_D[/tex]

[tex]k_F[/tex] - Fermi wave vector
[tex]k_D[/tex] - Debay wave vector
 
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I suppose you mean [itex]k[/itex] goes between [itex]k_F+k_D[/itex] and [itex]k_F-k_D[/itex]?

Yes it is valid. Let's denote [itex]k=k_F+\delta k[/itex], then

[tex] |\frac{\hbar^2k_F^2}{2m}-\frac{\hbar^2k^2}{2m}|=|\frac{\hbar^2k_F\delta k}{m}+\frac{\hbar^2 \delta k^2}{2m}|[/tex]

since [itex]\delta k<k_D\ll k_F[/itex] we can neglect the last term (quadratic in [itex]\delta k[/itex] and get

[tex] |\frac{\hbar^2k_F\delta k}{m}|=\frac{\hbar^2k_F}{m}|k_F-k|<br /> [/itex][/tex]
 
Thanks a lot! :) Yes from [tex]k_F-k_D[/tex] to [tex]k_F+k_D[/tex].

I think that you have just a little mistake

You must write like

[tex] <br /> |\frac{\hbar^2k_F^2}{2m}-\frac{\hbar^2k^2}{2m}|=|-\frac{\hbar^2k_F\delta k}{m}-\frac{\hbar^2 \delta k^2}{2m}|<br /> [/tex]

To get [tex]C|k_F-k|[/tex] or in case you wrote you will get

[tex]C|k-k_F|[/tex]

You helped me a lot!
 
Petar Mali said:
Thanks a lot! :) Yes from [tex]k_F-k_D[/tex] to [tex]k_F+k_D[/tex].

I think that you have just a little mistake

You must write like

[tex] <br /> |\frac{\hbar^2k_F^2}{2m}-\frac{\hbar^2k^2}{2m}|=|-\frac{\hbar^2k_F\delta k}{m}-\frac{\hbar^2 \delta k^2}{2m}|<br /> [/tex]

To get [tex]C|k_F-k|[/tex] or in case you wrote you will get

[tex]C|k-k_F|[/tex]

I assumed that [itex]|\ldots |[/itex] meant taking the absolute value. If this is so then overall signs do not matter.

Anyway, You're welcome.
 
Yes! My mistake!
 

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