Abstract
The time evolution of the Wigner function for Gaussian states generated by Lindblad quantum dynamics is investigated in the semiclassical limit. A new type of phase-space dynamics is obtained for the centre of a Gaussian Wigner function, where the Lindblad terms generally introduce a non-Hamiltonian flow. In addition to this, the Gaussian approximation yields dynamical equations for the covariances. The approximation becomes exact for linear Lindblad operators and a quadratic Hamiltonian. By viewing the Wigner function as a wave function on a coordinate space of doubled dimension, and the phase-space Lindblad equation as a Schrödinger equation with a non-Hermitian Hamiltonian, a further set of semiclassical equations are derived. These are capable of describing the interference terms in Wigner functions arising in superpositions of Gaussian states, as demonstrated for a cat state in an anharmonic oscillator subject to damping.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 365203 |
Number of pages | 20 |
Journal | Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and Theoretical |
Volume | 51 |
Issue number | 36 |
Early online date | 26 Jul 2018 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 7 Sept 2018 |
Keywords
- Lindblad dynamics
- Quantum dynamics
- semiclassical methods
- wave packets
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Dive into the research topics of 'Lindblad dynamics of Gaussian states and their superpositions in the semiclassical limit'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Student theses
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Semiclassical methods for investigating open quantum systems and decoherence
Plastow, T. (Author), Schubert, R. C. V. (Supervisor), 23 Jan 2020Student thesis: Doctoral Thesis › Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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