A basis set comparison in a variational scheme for the Yukawa potential

Abstract

The variational method is used to obtain solutions to Schrodinger's equation for a particle in the radially screened Yukawa potential. A basis set is presented. While the Laguerre basis set shows considerable improvement over the hydrogenic one, problems are still encountered as the screening parameter approaches its threshold value. Variational calculations are also presented using an Eckart-type basis set which looks promising near the critical screening region.