Perturbation theory (quantum mechanics) 2026-10-13
Perturbation theory expands a quantum problem around a solvable Hamiltonian. Time-independent perturbation theory expands stationary energies and eigenstates; time-dependent perturbation theory expands dynamical amplitudes and transitions.
Time-dependent perturbation theory Created 2026-09-24 Updated 2026-10-13
Expanding a state in unperturbed energy eigenstates with their free phases converts the time-dependent Schrodinger equation into coupled equations for slowly varying amplitudes. To first order, the perturbation on the right-hand side acts on the initial unperturbed state.
This is the time-dependent branch of perturbation theory; its corrections describe transition amplitudes.
Time-independent perturbation theory Created 2026-09-24 Updated 2026-10-13
Time-independent perturbation theory expands the eigenvalues and eigenstates of in powers of a small perturbation .
This is the stationary branch of perturbation theory.