This page discusses the linear variational method for approximating molecular wavefunctions using trial wavefunctions as linear combinations of basis functions. It explains variational energy minimiza...This page discusses the linear variational method for approximating molecular wavefunctions using trial wavefunctions as linear combinations of basis functions. It explains variational energy minimization through secular equations involving Hermitian operators, particularly the Hamiltonian. The text highlights the importance of determinant properties in finding energy levels and mentions the use of Gaussian orbitals for testing the method on Hydrogen, despite the exactness of Slater orbitals.
