Converging the Hamiltonian in Atomic Units?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a trial function to approximate the energy of a hydrogen atom. The speaker is unsure which Hamiltonian to use and is having trouble with the integration of a certain term. They also question if the coefficients in the trial function should be r-dependent. It is suggested that changing the term to 1/(r+eps) may lead to convergence.
  • #1
Shadowz
43
0

Homework Statement


So the question is I have to use some trial function of the form [tex]\sum c_if_i[/tex] to approximate the energy of hydrogen atom where [tex]f_i=e^{-ar}[/tex] for some number a (positive real number). Note that r is in atomic unit.

Homework Equations


Because r is in atomic unit, I think I should use the Hamiltonian in atomic unit, that is
[tex]H = -\frac{1}{2}\nabla^2 + \frac{1}{r}[/tex]
or should I use the spherical Hamiltonian?

I try to compute [tex]H_{ij} = \int_0^\infty f_iHf_j[/tex] but there will be the term [tex]\int_0^\infty f_1\frac{1}{r}f_2dr[/tex] which cannot be integrated (not converged). So what's wrong with the way I approach the problem?

Thank you,
 
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  • #2
might your coefficients be r dependent since they are in the full solution of the hydrogen like atom
 
  • #3
[tex]
\int_0^\infty f_1\frac{1}{r}f_2dr
[/tex]
will converge if you change 1/r to 1/(r+eps)
 

FAQ: Converging the Hamiltonian in Atomic Units?

What is a Hamiltonian in atomic units?

A Hamiltonian in atomic units is a mathematical operator that represents the total energy of a system of particles in atomic units, which is a system of natural units commonly used in atomic and molecular physics.

How is the Hamiltonian in atomic units different from other units?

The Hamiltonian in atomic units is expressed in terms of the fundamental physical constants of the system, such as the mass of the electron and the charge of the electron, rather than in terms of arbitrary units like meters and kilograms.

Why is the Hamiltonian in atomic units useful?

The Hamiltonian in atomic units simplifies calculations in atomic and molecular physics, as it eliminates the need for unit conversions and reduces the number of constants involved in the equations.

How is the Hamiltonian in atomic units derived?

The Hamiltonian in atomic units is derived from the Schrödinger equation, which describes the time evolution of a quantum mechanical system. The Hamiltonian operator is obtained by replacing the physical quantities in the Schrödinger equation with their corresponding atomic units values.

Can the Hamiltonian in atomic units be used for all systems?

The Hamiltonian in atomic units is most commonly used for atomic and molecular systems, but it can also be used for other systems that have a similar structure and can be described by quantum mechanics, such as solid-state materials.

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