Thermal corrections for positronium

Abstract

Thermal corrections, including relativistic effects, for the positronium atom are discussed. The theoretical description of thermal corrections is carried out within the framework of relativistic quantum electrodynamics. As a result, thermal corrections to atomic energy levels with a fine and hyperfine structure and to the probabilities of annihilation of a positronium atom placed in a thermal environment (blackbody radiation) are taken into account. Numerical results are discussed throughout the paper in view of modern experiments and theoretical searches for verification of fundamental interactions.

10 pages, 2 figures, 2 tables