Interaction of electrons with lattice vibrations

Abstract Using methods of modern field theories a canonical transformation of the Hamiltonian of free electrons in the field of the lattice vibrations is performed. This transformation takes account of the bulk of the interaction of the electrons with the vibrational field and leads to a renormalization of the velocity of sound and of the interaction parameter F. An objection of Wentzel’s against the use of large F is removed in this way. Even in the case of weak interaction the transformed Hamiltonian contains already in zero order terms which require a modification of the usual procedure in the theory of metals, and which at low temperatures lead to an increase of the effective mass of the electrons. Treatment of strong interaction requires the development of a new method.