Path-Integral Calculation of the Quantum-Statistical Density Matrix for Attractive Coulomb Forces

Abstract

A method for the calculation of the two-particle statistical density matrix for attractive Coulomb forces is described. The path-integral expression for the density matrix is reduced to a modified path integral which involves summation over only one-dimensional paths. This expression is then approximated by an iteration procedure using direct numerical quadratures. The results obtained are related directly to the quantum-mechanical radial-distribution function for a plasma at small ion-electron separations.