Abstract
A numerical scheme for evaluating the part of the one-photon vacuum-polarization effect not accounted for by the Uehling potential (the Wichmann-Kroll effect) is presented. The method can be used with an arbitary atomic model potential describing the bound electrons. Benchmark results for this effect are presented for hydrogenlike levels using a uniform nuclear-charge distribution. The effect of direct and exchange electron screening on the vacuum polarization are discussed in connection with the accurately measured 22 transition in lithiumlike uranium.
- Received 2 June 1993
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.48.2772
©1993 American Physical Society