How to directly calculate the polarizability

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the direct calculation of polarizability using a perturbation expression, specifically in the context of quantum mechanics and the He atom. Participants explore the mathematical treatment of the perturbation theory and its application to the polarizability calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a perturbation expression for calculating polarizability and seeks guidance on handling the term involving the Hamiltonian operator.
  • Another participant suggests reviewing time-independent perturbation theory and references a textbook by Sakurai for further understanding.
  • A later reply introduces the concept of inserting a resolution of the identity in terms of eigenfunctions of the Hamiltonian to address the term in question.
  • The original poster acknowledges the complexity of dealing with the infinite summation required for exact results.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the method for handling the perturbation term, and the discussion reflects multiple approaches and challenges associated with the calculation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the definitions of terms within quantum mechanics and the potential challenges in obtaining exact results from infinite summations.

sandf
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Dear all,
I want to directly calculate the polarizability using the following perturbation expression,
when the ground state wave function |0> is known.
for example, for He atom, r1 and r2 two electrons.

##\alpha = \frac{2}{3}\left\langle {0|({r_1} + {r_2})\frac{1}{{H - {E_0}}}({r_1} + {r_2})|0} \right\rangle ##

How to deal with the term of ## \frac{1}{{H - {E_0}}}## ?

Any help or references will be appreciated.

Best regards.
Youzhao Lan
 
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That's a bit a longer story. First, have a look on time-independent perturbation theory in a good textbook on quantum theory. The treatment in Sakurai is very good. Then look for the application on the Stark effect (2nd order perturbation theory).
 
Thank you very much, I get it.

Best regards.
Lan
 
Usually, you insert a resolution of the identity in terms of eigenfunctions of H, i.e. ## (H-E_0)^{-1}=\sum_i |i\rangle (E_i-E_0)^{-1}\langle i |##.
 
Dear DrDu,
Thank you very much! The infinite summation seems to be another difficult task for obtaining exact results.
Best regards.
Lan
 

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