Self-consistent harmonic theory of solvation in glassy systems: Quantum solvation

The self-consistent harmonic theory developed in the preceding paper for th e study of classical solvation dynamics in glassy media is extended to trea t quantum solvation. In particular, a quantum set of optimized normal modes and a methodology for calculating, quantum mechanically, all multiphonon c ontributions to solvation are presented. The simulation of solvation dynami cs in a low temperature glass shows nontrivial quantum effects. The relatio nship between the quantum theory presented in this work and previous theori es is discussed. (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S0021-9606(00)510 05-8].