Finite amplitude method for the solution of the random-phase approximation

We propose a practical method for solving the random-phase approximation (RPA) in the self-consistent Hartree-Fock (HF) and density-functional theory. The method is based on numerical evaluation of the residual interactions utilizing the finite amplitude of single-particle wave functions. The method only requires calculations of the single-particle Hamiltonian constructed with independent bra and ket states. Using the present method, the RPA calculation becomes possible with a little extension of a numerical code of the static HF calculation. We demonstrate the usefulness and accuracy of the present method by performing test calculations for isoscalar responses in deformed ^20Ne.