Thermal corrections for positronium

TL;DR

This paper discusses relativistic quantum electrodynamics calculations of thermal corrections to positronium energy levels and annihilation probabilities in a blackbody radiation environment, relevant for experimental tests of fundamental physics.

Contribution

It provides a detailed theoretical framework for thermal corrections to positronium, including relativistic effects, within quantum electrodynamics, enhancing understanding of atomic behavior in thermal environments.

Findings

Thermal corrections affect positronium energy levels and annihilation probabilities.

Numerical results align with current experimental capabilities.

The work aids in testing fundamental interactions through thermal effects.

Abstract

Thermal corrections, including relativistic effects, for the positronium atom are discussed. The theoretical description of thermal corrections is carried out within the framework of relativistic quantum electrodynamics. As a result, thermal corrections to atomic energy levels with a fine and hyperfine structure and to the probabilities of annihilation of a positronium atom placed in a thermal environment (blackbody radiation) are taken into account. Numerical results are discussed throughout the paper in view of modern experiments and theoretical searches for verification of fundamental interactions.