Normalising simplified proton distribution

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on normalizing a simplified model of a proton's charge distribution, represented by the function ρ(r) ∝ (1/r)Exp(-r/R). The user has determined that the integral involves the exponential integral Ei(-r/R) and is struggling with normalization since this integral cannot be normalized in the conventional sense. They note that using spherical coordinates, the integral converges when considering the volume element 4πr²dr. Ultimately, they derive a normalization constant N = 1 / sqrt(2πR) for the probability density function. The conversation highlights the complexities of normalizing charge distributions in theoretical physics.
alfredbester
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I tried asking this question in the maths help, but am still stuck.

Q. For a simplified model of a proton's charge distribution, (where R can be considered as some characteristic "size" of the proton):\rho(r) \propto (1/r)Exp(- r / R) where R is some characteristic size of the proton.

With some help I've figured the integral to this solution is the exponentialintegral: Ei(-r/R) in the past when I'm asked to normalise something I'd take the limits from infinity to -infinity and find N so the probability is 1, here though the exponential integral can't be normalised from what I can see. Any pointers would be appreciated.
 
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d^3r in spherical coords with no angular dependence is 4 pi r^2dr so the integral rho r^2 dr converges.
 
So

\rho(r) = (4pi r^2 dr).(1/r)Exp(-r / R)

Integral from infinity to 0 of |\rho(r)|^2 = N^2 . [(1/r^2).Exp(-2r / R)]

is 1 = N^2. (4pi) [1 / (-2/R)] = N^2 .2piR => N = 1 / sqrt(2.pi.R)
 
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