Efficient calculation of (resonance) Raman spectra and excitation profiles with real-time propagation

We investigate approaches for the calculation of (resonance) Raman spectra in a real-time time-dependent density functional theory (RT-TDDFT) framework. Several short time approximations to the Kramers, Heisenberg, and Dirac polarizability tensor are examined with regard to the calculation of resonance Raman spectra: One relies on a Placzek type expansion of the electronic polarizability and the other one relies on the excited state gradient method. The first one is shown to be in agreement with an approach based on perturbation theory in the case of a weak δ-pulse perturbation. The latter is newly applied in a real time propagation framework, enabled by the use of Padé approximants to the Fourier transform which allow for a sufficient resolution in the frequency domain. An analysis of the performance of Padé approximants is given. All approaches were found to be in good agreement for uracil and R-methyloxirane. Moreover it is shown how RT-TDDFT can be used to calculate Raman excitation profiles efficiently.