Old quantum mechanics by Bohr and Sommerfeld from modern perspective

We review Bohr's atomic model and its extension by Sommerfeld from a mathematical perspective of wave mechanics. The derivation of quantization rules and energy levels is revisited using semiclassical methods. Sommerfeld-type integrals are evaluated by elementary techniques, and connections with the Schrödinger and Dirac equations are established. Historical developments and key transitions from classical to quantum theory are discussed to clarify the structure and significance of the old quantum mechanics.

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Publication Details

Journal
Physics-Uspekhi
Published
2025-08-01
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3367/ufne.2025.08.040014
Primary Topic
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

Old quantum mechanics by Bohr and Sommerfeld from modern perspective

Kamal Barley, Andreas Ruffing, Sergeĭ K. Suslov
Physics-Uspekhi
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
article

Old quantum mechanics by Bohr and Sommerfeld from modern perspective

Kamal Barley, Andreas Ruffing, Sergeĭ K. Suslov
article en

Abstract

We review Bohr's atomic model and its extension by Sommerfeld from a mathematical perspective of wave mechanics. The derivation of quantization rules and energy levels is revisited using semiclassical methods. Sommerfeld-type integrals are evaluated by elementary techniques, and connections with the Schrödinger and Dirac equations are established. Historical developments and key transitions from classical to quantum theory are discussed to clarify the structure and significance of the old quantum mechanics.

Physics-Uspekhi
Howard University (US), Arizona State University (US), Stony Brook University (US)
Openalex Percentile: Top 85%
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
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