Electron-ion pseudopotentials in the alkali metals

Abstract

Through the choice of a single parameter (an effective core radius R_core) a simple model potential for the electron-ion interaction in a metal yields form factors V(K) similar to those of the Heine-Abarenkov model potentials. Values of R_core near to the usual ionic radii give V(K) curves which are shown to be useful for momentum transfers K in the transport range and nearby, the region of interest normally encountered in the theory of metals. The potentials are applied in the calculation of resistivities, phonon spectra and phase shifts. Energy-dependent properties of the potentials are inferred from thermopower data.