The one-dimensional Coulomb Problem

Abstract

One-dimensional scattering by a Coulomb potential V(x)=lambda/|x| is studied for both repulsive (c>0) and attractive (c<0) cases. Two methods of regularizing the singularity at x=0 are used, yielding the same conclusion, namely, that the transmission vanishes. For an attractive potential (c<0), two groups of bound states are found. The first one consists of "regular" (Rydberg) bound states, respecting standard orthogonality relations. The second set consists of "anomalous"} bound states (in a sense to be clarified), which always relax as coherent states.