Quantum Potential for Diffraction and Exchange Effects

Abstract

Semi-classical methods of statistical mechanics can incorporate essential quantum effects by using effective quantum potentials. An ideal Fermi gas interacting with an impurity is represented by a classical fluid with effective electron-electron and electron-impurity quantum potentials. The electron-impurity quantum potential is evaluated at weak coupling, leading to a generalization of the Kelbg potential to include both diffraction and degeneracy effects. The electron-electron quantum potential for exchange effects only is the same as that discussed earlier by others.