Harmonic model potential for simple metals

The model potential proposed differs from the Heine-Abarenkov (1964) or Shaw (1968) model potential in as much as it replaces the constant potential in the core region (r<r_m, model radius) by a parabolic form. The model parameters are determined by matching the logarithmic derivatives at the boundary (r=r_m). The local version of the model potential is used to study the phonon spectra and electrical resistivity of sodium, potassium and rubidium. The calculated results agree well with the experimental values.