Oscillations in Finite Quantum Systems (Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics) - Hardcover

Bertsch, G. F.; Broglia, R. A.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521411483 ISBN 13: 9780521411486

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1994

Synopsis

This book surveys the physics of small clusters of particles undergoing vibrations, with applications in nuclear physics and the physics and chemistry of atomic clusters. The book begins with a survey of the experimental information on collective vibrations in atoms, metal clusters and nuclei. Next, the book goes on to develop theoretical tools to understand these findings. Special emphasis is placed on the Rayleigh-Ritz principle, the use of sum rules, and the quantum mechanics of mean field theory, known as 'RPA'. The important vibrational modes observed in the different systems are then discussed, including the dipole mode of oscillation (important in both nuclei and metal clusters), surface modes of higher polarity, and the compressional mode. In the last two chapters mechanisms for the damping of vibrational modes and the effects of excitation energy on the modes are described.

About this title

Review

"Of interest to anyone studying finite quantum systems in physics or physical chemistry...Very clearly written; the mathematics is presented with unusual finesse." MU, American Mathematical Monthly

"...a very interesting book...a successful book." Herman Feshbach, Physics Today

Book Description

This book surveys the physics of small clusters of particles undergoing vibrations, with applications in nuclear physics and the physics and chemistry of atomic clusters. It considers experimental information, theoretical tools, the important vibrational modes, damping mechanisms and excitation energy.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1994
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521411483
• ISBN 13: 9780521411486
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 228