An Impact Parameter Formalism. II

Abstract

The mathematical structure of the impact parameter formalism proposed by Kotani and Adachi is discussed. The formalism is regarded as a counterpart of the partial wave expansion of the scattering amplitude. An impact parameter amplitude is defined as a function of impact parameter and total energy. This amplitude has two characteristic features, corresponding to particle-like and wave-like pictures. The latter nature has not been taken into account in previous impact parameter formalisms.