Complex States of Simple Molecular Systems

dc.creatorEnglman, R.
dc.creatorYahalom, A.
dc.date2004-06-29
dc.date.accessioned2026-07-07T05:52:10Z
dc.date.available2026-07-07T05:52:10Z
dc.descriptionA review is given of phase properties in molecular wave functions, composed of a number of (and, at least, two) electronic states that become degenerate at some nearby values of the nuclear configuration. Apart from discussing phases and interference in classical (non-quantal) systems, including light-waves, the review looks at the constructability of complex wave functions from observable quantities ("the phase problem"), at the controversy regarding quantum mechanical phase-operators, at the modes of observability of phase and at the role of phases in some non-demolition measurements. Advances in experimental and (especially) theoretical aspects of Aharonov-Bohm and topological (Berry) phases are described, including those involving two-electron and relativistic systems. Several works in the phase control and revivals of molecular wave-packets are cited as developments and applications of complex-function theory. Further topics that this review touches on are: coherent states, semiclassical approximations and the Maslov index. The interrelation between time and the complex state is noted in the contexts of time delays in scattering, of time-reversal invariance and of the existence of a molecular time-arrow.
dc.description79 pages, 6 figures
dc.identifierhttps://arxiv.org/abs/physics/0406149
dc.identifierhttp://arxiv.org/abs/physics/0406149
dc.identifierchapter of the volume "The Role of Degenerate States in Chemistry" edited by M. Baer and G. Billing in Adv. Chem. Phys. Vol. 124 (John Wiley & Sons 2002)
dc.identifier.urihttp://salesiana.dossiersoluciones.com/handle/123456789/86233
dc.subjectChemical Physics
dc.titleComplex States of Simple Molecular Systems
dc.typetext

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