Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree
quantum chemistry algorithm
Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree (MCTDH) is an approach to quantum molecular dynamics, an algorithm to solve the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for multidimensional dynamical systems consisting of distinguishable particles. The nuclei of molecules is one example of such particles and their vibrational motion is a form of time-dependence. The method uses an overall wavefunction composed of products of single-particle wavefunctions as first proposed by Douglas Hartree in 1927. The "multiconfiguration" part of the method refers to combining multiple such products.
MCTDH can predict the motion of the nuclei of a molecular system evolving on one or several coupled electronic potential energy surfaces. It is an approximate method whose numerical efficiency decreases with growing accuracy.
MCTDH is suited for multi-dimensional problems, in particular for problems that are difficult or even impossible to solve in conventional ways.
Methods
Basic algorithm
Wavefunction expansion
Ψ
(
q
i
,
.
.
.
The public source identifies “Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree” as quantum chemistry algorithm. This brief keeps that definition visible, then builds a research path around Multi-configuration, time-dependent and Hartree.
Why this record matters
A short description can identify a subject without explaining its stakes. For “Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree”, the useful work is to connect “quantum chemistry algorithm” to the records capable of establishing context and consequence.
Named sources, stable identifiers and responsible institutions provide the strongest route from overview to verifiable evidence. The source revision retrieved here is dated Aug 11, 2026. The linked authority identifier is Q386606. None of the 0 selected statements returned an explicit reference. The first chronological checks are 1927.
The absence of detail may reflect summary conventions rather than a lack of surviving documentation. The lead is largely declarative, so disagreement and counter-evidence require a deliberate search beyond the opening account. Authority statements aid reconciliation but still require their own references, qualifiers and ranks to be checked.
How to read it
Use the entry as an orientation point, then follow its citations and revision history. Names, dates and institutional relationships should be checked against the original record.
- Subject orientation
- Search vocabulary
- Locating named sources
The closest primary source, responsible institution and strongest cited specialist reference.
Three-step research path
- Establish the record: confirm the title “Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree”, its source revision and the description used here.
- Expand the search: follow Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree primary sources, Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree archive and Multi-configuration research across catalogues and specialist indexes.
- Test the account: compare the strongest cited source with the responsible institution’s current record and note any disagreement.
Questions for further research
- Which source most directly establishes the central claim about “Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree”?
- Which cited source is closest to the event, object or claim?
- Which institution is responsible for the underlying evidence?
Search terms from this dossier
This entry incorporates text from “Multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree” on English Wikipedia. Contributors are listed in the page history. Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License. Selected authority identifiers and statements are retrieved from Wikidata under CC0; their references and qualifiers remain part of the verification path.