An exact derivation of the Thomas precession rate using the Lorentz transformation

TL;DR

This paper derives the precise rate of Thomas precession for an electron in a hydrogen-like atom using Lorentz transformations, providing an exact relativistic expression for this quantum phenomenon.

Contribution

It presents the first exact derivation of Thomas precession rate directly from Lorentz transformations in the context of atomic physics.

Findings

Exact expression for Thomas precession rate derived

Clarifies relativistic effects in atomic electron motion

Provides a basis for more accurate quantum models

Abstract

Using the standard formalism of Lorentz transformation of the special theory of relativity, we derive the exact expression of the Thomas precession rate for an electron in a classical circular orbit around the nucleus of a hydrogen-like atom.