Abstract
For collisions of the form a + b →c + d, it is shown that detailed balance will be formally satisfied in the impact parameter coupled state approximation (as it is commonly employed in atomic collisions), and will have a believable physical interpretation, provided the coupled state expansion functions are properly chosen. The connections between microreversibility relations in the coupled state approximation, in the impact parameter method without the coupled state approximation, and in the original pre-impact-parameter description of the collision by a time-independent Hamiltonian, are elucidated. The discussion is valid for systems composed of spinless and/or spin 1/2 particles, distinguishable or indistinguishable, and takes into account the transformation properties of the spin functions under the time-reversal and reflection operations relevant to microreversibility in the impact parameter method; straight line constant speed motion of a relative to b is not assumed. The relationship – of the present more general treatment – to a proof of detailed balancing in the coupled state approximation previously given by Green, but valid only for spinless particles and relatively simply transforming expansion functions is clarified.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
