Perspective of Fermi’s golden rule and its generalizations in chemical physics

S Seogjoo J. Jang (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Queens College, City University of New York 1 , 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Queens, New York 11367, and , New York, New York 10016,) G Goun Kim (Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) 2 , Daejeon 34141,) Y Young Min Rhee (Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) 2 , Daejeon 34141,)

Abstract

This perspective provides a succinct history of Fermi’s golden rule (FGR), an overview of its derivation, assumptions, and representative forms. Major applications of FGR, mostly in the field of chemical physics, are reviewed. These illustrate the broad applicability and success of FGR. Ambiguities and open issues encountered in practical applications of FGR are clarified. Recent advances in generalizations of FGR and computational methods for practical applications are addressed.

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 164, Issue 23
Published June 21, 2026
ISSN 0021-9606
Publisher American Institute of Physics

Journal Info

The Journal of Chemical Physics

American Institute of Physics

ISSN: 0021-9606 Physical Sciences

Authors (3)

S

Seogjoo J. Jang

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Queens College, City University of New York 1 , 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Queens, New York 11367, and , New York, New York 10016,

G

Goun Kim

Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) 2 , Daejeon 34141,

Y

Young Min Rhee

Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) 2 , Daejeon 34141,