Rabi Oscillations and Few-Level Approximations in Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory

M. Ruggenthaler and D. Bauer
Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 233001 – Published 8 June 2009

Abstract

The resonant interaction of laser light with atoms is analyzed from the time-dependent density functional theory perspective using a model helium atom which can be solved exactly. It is found that in the exact exchange approximation the time-dependent dipole shows Rabi-type oscillations of its amplitude. However, the time-dependent density itself is not well described. These seemingly contradictory findings are analyzed. The Rabi-type oscillations are found to be essentially of classical origin. The incompatibility of time-dependent density functional theory with few-level approximations for the description of resonant dynamics is discussed.

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  • Received 2 February 2009

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.233001

©2009 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

M. Ruggenthaler and D. Bauer

  • Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik, Postfach 103980, 69029 Heidelberg, Germany

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Issue

Vol. 102, Iss. 23 — 12 June 2009

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