Electron Correlation Dynamics in Atomic Collisions

Describes the dynamics of electron correlation in multi-electron transitions in atomic, molecular and optical physics.

J. H. McGuire (Author)

9780521018593, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 15 December 2005

304 pages, 37 b/w illus. 10 tables
24.5 x 17 x 1.6 cm, 0.477 kg

'It makes for good reading with easy introductions before hard-nosed review of the latest concepts. I unreservedly and warmly recommend the above text as being a highly stimulating 'good read'.' D. Crothers, Contemporary Physics

This graduate/research level text introduces the theory of multi-electron transitions in atomic, molecular and optical physics, emphasising the emerging topic of dynamic electron correlation. The book begins with an overview of simple binomial probabilities, classical scattering theory, quantum scattering and correlation, followed by the theory of single electron transition probabilities. Multiple electron transition probabilities are then treated in detail. Various approaches to multiple electron transitions are covered including the independent electron approximation, useful statistical methods and perturbation expansions treating correlation in both weak and strong limits. The important topic of the dynamics of electron correlation is a central theme in this book. The text contains a comprehensive summary of data for few and many-electron transitions in atoms and molecules, including transitions on different atomic centres, fast ion-atom and electron-atom interactions, and recent observations using synchrotron radiation. Emphasis is given to methods that may be used by non-specialists.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Single electron–electron transition probabilities
3. Formulation of multi-electron transition probabilities
4. Independent electron approximation
5. Statistical methods
6. Correlated multi-electron–electron transition probabilities
7. Perturbation expansions
8. Projectiles carrying electrons
9. Reactions with photons
10. Relations between charged particle and photon reactions
Appendices
References.

Subject Areas: Chemical physics [PHVQ], Atomic & molecular physics [PHM], Optical physics [PHJ]