Explaining Electron Emission and Photon Interactions in Quantum Mechanics

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the quantum mechanics of electron emission and photon interactions, specifically in the context of the hydrogen atom. The participants highlight that the Hamiltonian is typically considered time-independent for simplicity, which neglects the dynamics of electron emission. They inquire about mathematical models that describe electron behavior when influenced by photons, particularly during transitions between energy states. Time-dependent perturbation theory is identified as a relevant framework for understanding these interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum Mechanics fundamentals
  • Schrödinger's Equation
  • Time-dependent Perturbation Theory
  • Electromagnetic Wave Emission
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  • Study Time-dependent Perturbation Theory in detail
  • Explore the mathematical models of photon interactions with electrons
  • Research the emission of electromagnetic waves by accelerated charges
  • Examine the transition probabilities in quantum mechanics
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Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists interested in atomic interactions, and anyone studying the principles of electron-photon dynamics.

fluidistic
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From my understanding, when solving the hydrogen atom (getting the wavefunction of the electron) in introductory quantum mechanics, we assume that the Hamiltonian doesn't change with time (because in this case the solution of the S. equation is separable and therefore "easy" to obtain). In other words, we assume that the system proton+electron is stable so that we dismiss any emission of the electron. It means we do not seek to explain using the Schrödinger's equation how an electron emits and do its transition of "orbit".
I would to know if there is some mathematical model that exactly explain what happens to the electron when it get "hit by a photon" or when the atom is in excited unstable state and then emits a photon and comes back to the ground state.

When a charge is accelerated it must emit EM waves according to classical mechanics. Is there a similar description in quantum mechanics? If so, where can I read more about this?
 
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Thank you very much.
 

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