Calculation of Transition Probabilities Using the Landau-Zener Model

Abstract

The Landau-Zener formula is discussed in connection with numerical calculations of the nonadiabatic transition probability in atomic collisions. The present treatment in the case of weak interaction leads to an additional constant phase $\frac{1}{4}\ensuremath{\pi}$ beyond the semiclassical one and, in contrast to the conclusions of Olson and Smith, gives good agreement with their closecoupled and distorted-wave numerical results.