Correlation and Quantum Corrections in the Thomas-Fermi Model of the Atom

Abstract

A new method is described for computing the effect of correlation, inhomogeneity, and exchange on the Thomas-Fermi model of the atom. The method makes use of the many-body point of view, rather than an independent-particle point of view, by considering the hierarchy equation linking the $n$-particle Green's functions. The hierarchy is truncated by a prescription equivalent to the Gell-Mann and Brueckner theory of the high-density electron gas, resulting in a description of the atom in which the exchange interaction is replaced by the effective interaction. The physical significance of this replacement is noted.