A band factorization technique for transition matrix element asymptotics

A new method of evaluating transition matrix elements between wave functions associated with orthogonal polynomials is proposed. The technique relies on purely algebraic manipulation of the associated recurrence coefficients. The form of the matrix elements is perfectly suited to very large quantum number calculations by using asymptotic series expansions. In practice, this allows the accurate and fast numerical treatment of transition matrix elements in the quasi-classical limit. Examples include the matrix elements of xp in the harmonic oscillator basis, and connections with the Wigner 3j symbols. © 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 03.65.Fd; 03.67.Lx