Solution of the Smoluchowski equation with a Coulomb potential. I. General results

Abstract

The time‐dependent Smoluchowski equation with a Coulomb potential is solved analytically for a general boundary condition, and expressions for the distribution function, reaction rate, and survival probability are given. The expressions are evaluated numerically and the long‐time behavior is derived. The theoretical results apply to experiments involving ion recombination without an electric field (or where there is a time delay in the application of the field), to scavenging experiments, and to fluorescence quenching.