Non-Relativistic Scattering: Born Approximation for Particle-Wave Vector k

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the differential cross section for non-relativistic scattering using the Born approximation, specifically for a particle with mass m and charge e interacting with a neutral, spherically symmetric charge distribution ρ(r). The key equation presented is the amplitude of the differential cross section, f(θ) = (-2m/(qħ²))∫₀⁺∞ rV(r)sin(qr)dr, where q = 2k sin(θ/2). The participant encounters issues with convergence of the integral when substituting the potential derived from the second moment A, leading to questions about the validity of their approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of non-relativistic quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the Born approximation
  • Knowledge of differential cross sections in scattering theory
  • Basic calculus, particularly integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Born approximation in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the properties of spherically symmetric potentials
  • Investigate convergence criteria for integrals in quantum scattering problems
  • Explore the implications of the first and second moments in charge distributions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and scattering theory, as well as researchers working on particle interactions and potential theory.

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Homework Statement


Consider a non-relativistic scattering of a particle of mass m and charge e from a fixed distibution of charge [tex]\rho(r)[/tex]. Assume that the charge distribution is neutral, [tex]\int d^3r \rho(r) =0[/tex], it's spherically symmetric, and the second moment is defined as:
[tex]A=\int d^3r r^2\rho(r)[/tex].
Use the Born approximation to derive the differential cross section for the scattering of a particle of wave vector k.


Homework Equations


Let [tex]q=2ksin(\theta/2)[/tex] and the amplitude of the differential cross section to be:
[tex]f(\theta)=(-2m/(q\hbar^2))\int_{0}^{\infty} rV(r)sin(qr)dr[/tex]
(for a spherically symmetric potential).
N.B
theta is the scattering angle.

The Attempt at a Solution


To do the calculation all I need to know is what is the potential,
now the constant A has magnitude of charge times displacement squared, which means eA/r^3 will give units of potetnial energy, but when I insert this I get that the integral doesn't converge, am I wrong here?
If it were the first moment then the integral will converge (the known intgral of sin(x)/x on the etire real line).
Any suggestions here?

Thanks in advance.
 
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