Consider a one-dimensional crystal lattice of lattice spacing a with the n-th atom having position rn=na+xn and momentum pn, for n=0,1,…,N−1. The atoms interact with their nearest neighbours with a harmonic force and the classical Hamiltonian is
H=n∑2mpn2+21λ(xn−xn−1)2
where we impose periodic boundary conditions: xN=x0. Show that the normal mode frequencies for the classical harmonic vibrations of the system are given by
ωl=2mλ∣∣∣∣∣sin(2kla)∣∣∣∣∣,
where kl=2πl/Na, with l integer and (for N even, which you may assume) −N/2<l⩽N/2. What is the velocity of sound in this crystal?
Show how the system may be quantized to give the quantum operator
where al† and al are creation and annihilation operators, respectively, whose commutation relations should be stated. Briefly describe the spectrum of energy eigenstates for this system, stating the definition of the ground state ∣0⟩ and giving the expression for the energy eigenvalue of any eigenstate.
The Debye-Waller factor e−W(Q) associated with Bragg scattering from this crystal is defined by the matrix element