Thomas-Fermi Model
The Thomas-Fermi Model is a theoretical framework used in quantum mechanics to describe the distribution of electrons in an atom or a solid. It simplifies the complex interactions between electrons by treating them as a continuous charge density rather than individual particles. This model helps in understanding the behavior of electrons in large systems, such as metals and semiconductors.
In the Thomas-Fermi Model, the potential energy of electrons is derived from their density, leading to a self-consistent solution. This approach is particularly useful for calculating properties like the electron density and energy levels in systems where traditional methods, like solving the Schrödinger equation, become impractical due to complexity.