Quantum theory of non-radiative processes in molecules and solids

Abstract

A review is made of a recent reaction-rate approach to the theoretical investigation of non-radiative processes in molecules and solids, based on an harmonic oscillator model for the nuclear motion. This approach takes into account all quantum effects (such as non-adiabaticity, energy quantization and nuclear tunneling) beyond the limitations of perturbation theory (weak electronic coupling) and the quasi-classical treatment of nuclear vibrations, by considering both strong and weak electron—phonon interactions. Some recent applications of the theory in biophysics and solid state physics are briefly reviewed.