Exact Markovian evolution of quantum systems with several degrees of freedom: Phase space representations

The exact solution of the Lindblad equation with a quadratic Hamiltonian and linear coupling operators was derived within the chord representation, that is, for the Fourier transform of the Wigner function, also known as the characteristic function. It is here generalized for several degrees of freedom, so as to provide an explicit expression for the reduced density operator of any subsystem, as well as moments expressed as derivatives of this evolving chord function. The Wigner function is then the convolution of its straightforward classical evolution with a widening multidimensional Gaussian window, eventually ensuring its positivity. Futher on, positivity also holds for the Glauber-Sundarshan P function, which guarantees separability of the components. In the context of several degrees of freedom, a full dissipation matrix is defined, whose trace is equal to twice the previously derived dissipation coefficient. This governs the rate at which the phase space volume of the argument of the Wigner function contracts, while that of the chord function expands. Examples of Markovian evolution of a triatomic molecule and of an array of harmonic oscillators are discussed.

Automated summary

The exact solution of the Lindblad equation with quadratic Hamiltonian and linear coupling operators in the chord representation, also known as the Fourier transform of the Wigner function, is derived. It is generalized for several degrees of freedom, providing an explicit expression for the reduced density operator of any subsystem and moments as derivatives of the evolving chord function. The Wigner function is obtained as the convolution of its classical evolution with a multidimensional Gaussian window, ensuring its positivity. The Glauber-Sundarshan P function also maintains positivity, guaranteeing separability of the components. The dissipation matrix for multiple degrees of freedom is introduced, governing the rate of contraction of the phase space volume of the argument of the Wigner function and expansion of the chord function. Examples of Markovian evolution of a triatomic molecule and an array of harmonic oscillators are discussed.