Quantum electrodynamics corrections to the $2P$ fine splitting in Li

TL;DR

This paper calculates high-order quantum electrodynamics corrections to the fine structure splitting of the lithium atom's 2P state, providing precise formulas and numerical results to reconcile experimental discrepancies.

Contribution

It derives complete formulas for $m\alpha^6$ and $m\alpha^7\ln\alpha$ QED corrections and performs numerical calculations using optimized basis functions.

Findings

Resolved discrepancies between experimental measurements and theoretical predictions.

Provided accurate QED correction formulas for light, many-electron atoms.

Laid groundwork for future QED studies in multi-electron systems.

Abstract

We consider quantum electrodynamics (QED) corrections to the fine splitting $E(2P_{3/2}) - E(2P_{1/2})$ in the Li atom. We derive complete formulas for the $m\,\alpha^6$ and $m\,\alpha^7\,\ln\alpha$ contributions and calculate them numerically using highly optimized, explicitly correlated basis functions. The obtained results resolve disagreement between measurements and lay the foundations for investigation of QED effects in light, many-electron atoms.