What is this notation D|(n;n')|, and how to solve it?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the notation D|(n;n')| in the context of quantum mechanics, specifically related to the intensity distribution of diatomic molecules as described in E. Hill's papers from the late 1920s. Participants explore the meaning of this notation and how to calculate it, while also considering the relevance of historical versus modern resources in understanding the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the notation D|(n;n')| and seeks clarification on its meaning and calculation methods, suggesting it relates to vibrational and electronic quantum numbers.
  • Another participant points out that the referenced papers are outdated and recommends more contemporary resources for understanding the spectra of diatomic molecules.
  • A participant acknowledges the recommendation but insists on the importance of understanding E. Hill's work, arguing that it is foundational for calculating intensities in diatomic molecules.
  • A further reply questions the necessity of focusing on older papers, suggesting that it may not be beneficial for understanding current scientific perspectives.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus. There is disagreement regarding the value of historical papers versus more modern resources in understanding the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific papers and books, indicating a reliance on historical context and the evolution of knowledge in the field, but do not resolve the implications of using older versus newer sources.

K-Manu
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TL;DR
Meaning of the notation for calculating the intensity of diatomic molecules.
I'm a beginner in the quantum mechanic and reading E. hill's paper explaining the intensity distribution of the doublet state for diatomic molecule (D->P).
To calculate the intensities, D|(n;n')| and/or q(n,a,j;n'a',j') must be calculated, but I have never seen it before in linear algebra/quantum mechanics.
What is the notation meaning, and how to calculate it?

*D|(n;n')| is suggested to include transitions in the vibrational and electronic quantum number and n is the totality of the quantum number as mentioned in the paper.Reference
1) https://journals.aps.org/pr/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev.32.250
2) https://www.pnas.org/doi/pdf/10.1073/pnas.15.10.779
 
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These papers are from 1928 and 1929. The knowledge of the spectra of diatomic molecules has evolved a lot since then. I suggest you look at more recent resources: Herzberg's Spectra of Diatomic Molecules from 1950 is already much more modern. Another good reference is Bransden and Joachain, Physics of Atoms and Molecules.
 
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DrClaude said:
These papers are from 1928 and 1929. The knowledge of the spectra of diatomic molecules has evolved a lot since then. I suggest you look at more recent resources: Herzberg's Spectra of Diatomic Molecules from 1950 is already much more modern. Another good reference is Bransden and Joachain, Physics of Atoms and Molecules.
I read the books which you recommanded.
But, E. Hill is who found the ways to calculate the intensities of diatomic molecules.
Thus, I need to understand his paper, not other.
Thank you for answer.
 
K-Manu said:
But, E. Hill is who found the ways to calculate the intensities of diatomic molecules.
Thus, I need to understand his paper, not other.
Why? What is your end game? If it is to write a book about the historical development of this area of science, then okay. But if you are trying to understand reality as understood today, why would you burn so many of your intellectual cycles with old perspectives?
 
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