Light one-electron atoms are a classical subject of quantum physics. The very discovery and further progress of quantum mechanics is intimately connected to the explanation of the main features of hydrogen energy levels. Each step in the development of quantum physics led to a better understanding of the bound state physics. The Bohr quantization rules of the old quantum theory were created in order to explain the existence of the stable discrete energy levels. The nonrelativistic quantum mechanics of Heisenberg and Schr ̈ odinger provided a self-consistent scheme for description of bound states. The re- tivistic spin one half Dirac equation quantitatively described the main - perimental features of the hydrogen spectrum. Discovery of the Lamb shift [1], a subtle discrepancy between the predictions of the Dirac equation and the experimental data, triggered development of modern relativistic quantum electrodynamics, and subsequently the Standard Model of modern physics. Despite its long and rich history the theory of atomic bound states is still very much alive today. New importance to the bound state physics was given by the development of quantum chromodynamics, the modern theory of strong interactions. It was realized that all hadrons, once thought to be the elementary building blocks of matter, are themselves atom-like bound states of elementary quarks bound by the color forces.
The book describes the modern theory of light hydrogen-like systems. The discussion is based on quantum electrodynamics. Green's functions, relativistic bound-state equations and Feynman diagrams are extensively used. New theoretical approaches are described and explained. The book contains derivation of many theoretical results obtained in recent years. A complete set of all theoretical results for the energy levels of hydrogen-like bound states is presented.
There is something old-fashioned and sage-like in Walter Howard's poetic voice. I can imagine him reading from a mountaintop-- with the raging elements a backdrop to his words. Howard is a learned man-- and has been an academic for many years-- but his poetry is in the tradition of a true romantic. He uses nature and emotion to find spiritual truth. He embraces beauty-- with all its allure, but is not afraid to reveal its frightening and dark side as well. Howard uses ample doses of levity to pull the fly down on our most cherished traditions and notions, but in the same token he shows a deep respect and affinity for all the things this world has to offer." - Doug Holder, Publisher of Ibbetson Street Press
This anthology of the best of Thomas Howard covers many topics of interest. From litergical reform and sacred architecture, women's ordination and hierachical authority, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien - These and many other topics are tackled by Howard with his characteristic thoughfulness in these articles and speeches that span more than twenty years of his prolific career.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
This will help us customize your experience to showcase the most relevant content to your age group
Please select from below
Login
Not registered?
Sign up
Already registered?
Success – Your message will goes here
We'd love to hear from you!
Thank you for visiting our website. Would you like to provide feedback on how we could improve your experience?
This site does not use any third party cookies with one exception — it uses cookies from Google to deliver its services and to analyze traffic.Learn More.