Operator Algebras and Quantum Dynamics: Semigroup Methods in Infinite Dimensions

Abstract

Background: Operator algebras and quantum dynamical semigroups are the mathematical tools of choice for understanding open quantum systems, especially in infinite-dimensional spaces. Such tools are extremely important for the time development of quantum systems out of equilibium under the influence of environment, where conventional finite dimensional methods do not include all possibilities for interaction. Objective: The objects of the present research are the r-properties and the decompositions of generators of quantum dynamical semigroups on infinite-dimensional spaces including their Hamiltonian and dissipative part, semigroup continuity, stationary states, and positivity improvement. The aim is to set a fundament in order to think about long-time dynamics in open quantum systems. Methods: The theorem Hille–Yosida is used to get conditions for the semigroup strongly continuous generated by unbounded operators. The time-evolution operator of the system is approximated with both Gaussian quadrature and Monte Carlo integration during infinitesimal time slices, by using Inf-LCHS in conjunction. Generators were studied under decomposition of their Hamiltonian and dissipative parts, while commutant algebras were investigated for irreducibility and positivity enhancement. Results: Most systems studied for these properties presented a singular decomposition, strong and weak semigroup continuity, existence of stationary states and positivity improvement. The counterexamples were the systems with in a lack of verification for dissipative parts, and they lost smoothing property, uniqueness of decomposition, partial semigroup continuity or large errors in approximation when we perform numerically. Conclusions: The combination of the methods of operator algebra with state-of-the-art simulation techniques yields a powerful approach to study infinite-dimensional quantum dynamics. Although dissipative components are not yet completely characterized, the results improve our understanding of generator structures and long-term system behavior which will help future work in quantum statistical mechanics and quantum information theory.