Griffiths QM 6.22: Deriving $E_{fs}^1$ from H$_r$ and H$_{so}$

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the first-order energy correction, \(E_{fs}^1\), from the Hamiltonians \(H_r\) and \(H_{so}\) in quantum mechanics. The key equations utilized include \(E_r^1 = -\frac{(E_n)^2}{2mc^2}\left[\frac{4n}{l+1/2} - 3\right]\) and the spin-orbit coupling Hamiltonian \(H_{so} = \frac{e^2}{8\pi\epsilon_0}\frac{S\cdot L}{m^2c^2r^3}\). The final expression derived is \(E_{fs}^1 = \frac{13.6}{n^3}\alpha^2\left[\frac{3}{4n} - \left(\frac{l(l+1) - m_lm_s}{l(l+1/2)(l+1}\right)\right]\), with \(13.6\) eV being a critical constant in the calculations. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly substituting values and understanding the relationships between the variables involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum Mechanics fundamentals, particularly perturbation theory
  • Understanding of Hamiltonians, specifically \(H_r\) and \(H_{so}\)
  • Familiarity with angular momentum operators and their expectations
  • Knowledge of atomic physics constants, including the Bohr radius and fine structure constant
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the fine structure constant \(\alpha\) and its implications in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the concept of spin-orbit coupling in greater detail
  • Learn about perturbation theory applications in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the significance of the energy levels in hydrogen-like atoms and their derivations
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on atomic structure and energy level calculations. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of perturbation theory and spin-orbit interactions.

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Homework Statement



Starting from

E^1_{fs} = \left<n l m_l m_s| (H_r + H_{so})| n l m_l m_s \right>

and using

E_r^1 = -\frac{(E_n)^2}{2mc^2}\left[\frac{4n}{l+1/2} - 3\right]

and

H_{so} = \frac{e^2}{8\pi\epsilon_0}\frac{S\cdot L}{m^2c^2r^3}

and

\left<\frac{1}{r^3}\right> = \frac{1}{l(l+1/2)(l+1)n^3a^3}

where 'a' is the Bohr radius,

and

\left<S \cdot L\right> = \left<S_x\right>\left<L_x\right> + \left<S_y\right>\left<L_y\right> + \left<S_z\right>\left<L_z\right>[/B]

derive

E_{fs}^1 = \frac{13.6}{n^3}\alpha^2\left[\frac{3}{4n} - \left(\frac{l(l+1) - m_lm_s}{l(l+1/2)(l+1}\right)\right]


Homework Equations



As above.[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution



The first bit of this is extremely straight-forward. I substitute the appropriate values and use the S.L stuff above to get

E^1_{fs} = \left<n l m_l m_s| (H_r + H_{so})| n l m_l m_s \right> = \frac{-(E_n)^2}{2mc^2}\left[\frac{4n}{l+l/2} - 3\right] + \frac{e^2}{8\pi\epsilon_0}\frac{\hbar^2m_lm_s}{m^2c^2}\frac{1}{l(l+1/2)(l+1)n^3a^3}

but from here on I seem to run into a stumbling block. I just don't how to get out any value of 13.6 [eV]. I know I can reexpress

E_n = \frac{-\alpha^2mc^2}{2n^2} = \frac{-m}{2n^2}\left(\frac{e^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0\hbar}\right)^2

but I am not seeing how to move forward. Trying to use this on the the E_n term in the RH of the above I get

\frac{\alpha^4mc^2}{8n^4}

which seems to get me nowhere.

Could someone give me a kick in the right direction? I'm not seeing where to go with all this mathturbation.[/B]
 
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13.6 eV is just the result of all the constants in the E_n term. Off the top of my head, I think you can write :
E_n = \frac{-13.6}{n^2}
But do check this
 
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You are right. Looking that up helped a lot. The formula was on the front jacket of the book and I saw a few other definitions (equations) that helped me solve the problem. Thanks a lot.
 

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