On the equivalence of semi-classical methods for QED in intense external fields

Abstract

Using the semi-classical method of Nikishov-Ritus (NR), the derivation of the transition rate of the beamsstrahlung process is reviewed. This method uses the Furry Picture and the exact solutions of the Dirac equation in the external field potential. For future linear colliders, the nominal machine parameters are such that this external field can be considered to be a constant crossed electromagnetic field. The Dirac equation solutions can be Fourier transformed such that they are functions of Dirac gamma matrices, Airy functions and the usual non-external field solution. The resultant analytic form for the transition rate is the same as that obtained by the Quasiclassical Operator (QO) method of Baier-Katkov which is valid in the limit of ultra-relativistic electron and vanishingly small radiation angle. The NR calculation however also exhibits a pole in the radiation angle for back-radiated photons. The removal of this pole requires a further study of IR divergences within the Furry Picture. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.