Bohr's correspondence principle for atomic transport calculations

Abstract

In this work we perform a comparison between Classical Molecular Static (CMS) and quantum Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations in order to obtain the diffusion coefficients for diluted \emph{Fe-Cr} alloys. We show that, in accordance with Bohr's correspondence principle, as the size of the atomic cell (total number of atoms) is increased, quantum results with DFT approach to the classical ones obtained with CMS. Quantum coherence effects play a crucial role in the difference arising between CMS and DFT calculations. Also, thermal contact with the environment destroys quantum coherent effects making the classical behavior to emerge. Indeed, CMS calculations are in good agreement with available experimental data. We claim that, the atomic diffusion process in metals is a classical phenomena. Then, if reliable semi empirical potentials are available, a classical treatment of the atomic transport in metals is much convenient than DFT.