Semiclassical approximation to the partition function of a particle in D dimensions

Citation
Caa. De Carvalho et al., Semiclassical approximation to the partition function of a particle in D dimensions, PHYS REV E, 61(6), 2000, pp. 6392-6398
Citations number
22
Categorie Soggetti
Physics
Journal title
PHYSICAL REVIEW E
ISSN journal
1063651X → ACNP
Volume
61
Issue
6
Year of publication
2000
Part
A
Pages
6392 - 6398
Database
ISI
SICI code
1063-651X(200006)61:6<6392:SATTPF>2.0.ZU;2-T
Abstract
We use a path integral formalism to derive a semiclassical series for the p artition function of a particle in D dimensions. In particular we analyze t he case of attractive central potentials, obtaining explicit expressions fo r the fluctuation determinant and for the semiclassical tu two-point functi on in the special cases of the harmonic and single-well quartic anharmonic oscillators. The specific heat of the latter is compared to precise WKB est imates. We conclude by discussing the possible extension of our results to field theories.