Path-Integral Calculation of the Quantum-Statistical Density Matrix for Attractive Coulomb Forces

Abstract

A method for the calculation of the two‐particle statistical density matrix for attractive Coulomb forces is described. The path‐integral expression for the density matrix is reduced to a modified path integral which involves summation over only one‐dimensional paths. This expression is then approximated by an iteration procedure using direct numerical quadratures. The results obtained are related directly to the quantum‐mechanical radial‐distribution function for a plasma at small ion‐electron separations.