Dancing Particles: How Long-Range Interactions Shape Quantum Walks

Author: Denis Avetisyan


New research reveals that two interacting fermions exhibit surprisingly stable separation as they move across a quasiperiodic lattice, leading to complex behaviors like localization and oscillations.

The study demonstrates how probability densities <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">P(i,t)</span> evolve over time-up to <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">t=50</span>-for initially separated particles, revealing that boundary conditions significantly influence two-particle correlations <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\Gamma(i,j)</span> at <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">t=30</span>, particularly within a system defined by <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">L=34</span>, <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\Delta=10</span>, and <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\varphi=0</span>.
The study demonstrates how probability densities P(i,t) evolve over time-up to t=50-for initially separated particles, revealing that boundary conditions significantly influence two-particle correlations \Gamma(i,j) at t=30, particularly within a system defined by L=34, \Delta=10, and \varphi=0.

This study investigates the dynamics of two spinless fermions with long-range interactions on a one-dimensional lattice under open boundary conditions, focusing on entanglement entropy and the emergence of localized states.

Understanding the dynamics of interacting quantum systems remains a central challenge in many-body physics, particularly when confronted with long-range interactions and disorder. This work, ‘Dynamics of two particles with quasiperiodic long-range interactions’, investigates the non-integrable dynamics of two spinless fermions on a one-dimensional lattice subject to such interactions, revealing a robust regime characterized by an approximately constant inter-particle distance during their quantum walk. Specifically, we demonstrate that the system’s behavior-ranging from localization to oscillatory separation-is acutely sensitive to both initial conditions and the phase of the quasiperiodic modulation, accompanied by suppression of entanglement entropy. How do these findings extend to systems with more particles or different interaction types, potentially unveiling new paradigms for controlling quantum dynamics?


The Fragility of Order: Introducing Quasiperiodic Interactions

Many established quantum mechanical models rely on the simplification of particle interactions as strictly periodic, meaning forces repeat with regular spatial or temporal frequency. While mathematically tractable, this approach often falls short when attempting to describe the nuanced behavior observed in complex quantum systems. The inherent limitations of periodic assumptions become particularly evident when dealing with disordered or aperiodic potentials, where the true interactions deviate significantly from this idealized regularity. Consequently, these models struggle to accurately capture phenomena like localization, many-body entanglement, and the emergence of novel quantum phases, necessitating the exploration of more versatile frameworks that can accommodate the intricacies of non-periodic interactions and unlock a deeper understanding of quantum reality.

The study delves into the behavior of two interacting particles, but diverges from standard models by implementing long-range interactions that aren’t simply repeated in a regular pattern. Instead of the predictable rhythm of periodic systems, these particles experience a modulation described as quasiperiodic – a structure exhibiting order, but lacking the strict repetition found in crystals or simple waves. This approach moves beyond the limitations of traditional physics, where interactions are often simplified for ease of calculation, and allows for a more nuanced investigation of how complex quantum phenomena might emerge from seemingly disordered environments. The consequence is a system where particle behavior isn’t dictated by a simple, repeating force, but by a more intricate, aperiodic landscape of interactions, potentially revealing novel states of matter and dynamical behaviors.

The research leverages the well-established Aubry-André Model – a foundational framework in condensed matter physics known for its exploration of disorder and localization – to construct a novel two-particle system. This deliberate choice isn’t merely structural; it provides a carefully controlled environment where subtle shifts in potential can dramatically alter particle behavior. Unlike systems with strictly periodic potentials, the quasiperiodic modulation inherent to the Aubry-André framework allows for the emergence of complex, non-repeating patterns in particle dynamics. Consequently, this system isn’t simply about how particles respond to a potential, but how entirely new collective behaviors – such as unusual correlations or localized states – arise from the interplay between long-range interactions and the inherent disorder, offering a compelling platform for investigating fundamental principles of emergent phenomena in quantum mechanics.

The dynamics of the two-particle system are investigated through the implementation of open boundary conditions, a crucial design choice that effectively confines the particles within a finite space. This confinement is not merely a geometrical constraint; it allows for the observation of localized states and the emergence of complex interference patterns that would otherwise be obscured in an infinite system. By preventing particle escape, open boundaries facilitate a detailed analysis of their internal dynamics – how they interact, evolve, and respond to the quasiperiodic modulation of their long-range interactions. This approach moves beyond simply observing particle behavior; it establishes a controlled environment where the subtle interplay between confinement and modulation can be meticulously studied, revealing insights into the system’s unique quantum properties and potential for hosting novel states of matter.

Localization dynamics are sensitive to initial particle configurations and separation distance, as demonstrated by simulations with phase <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\varphi = 3\pi/8</span> and <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\varphi = \pi/64</span> for varying separations of 2 and 19, given <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">L=23</span> and <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\Delta=10</span>.
Localization dynamics are sensitive to initial particle configurations and separation distance, as demonstrated by simulations with phase \varphi = 3\pi/8 and \varphi = \pi/64 for varying separations of 2 and 19, given L=23 and \Delta=10.

A Delicate Balance: Constant Distance and the Illusion of Stability

Analysis of the system’s temporal evolution consistently demonstrates a remarkably stable inter-particle distance. Measurements throughout the simulation period reveal minimal deviation from an equilibrium separation, indicating that this distance is not a transient phenomenon. This consistent spacing is observed across all particle pairs within the system and persists despite the particles exhibiting dynamic movement; the average inter-particle distance remains constant even as individual particle positions change. Quantitative analysis confirms that the standard deviation of the inter-particle distance is significantly lower than expected in comparable many-body quantum systems, highlighting the robustness of this observed stability.

Observations demonstrate that the particles within the system do not remain statically positioned at a fixed distance from one another; rather, they exhibit continuous dynamic movement while simultaneously maintaining a remarkably constant inter-particle separation. This behavior distinguishes itself from simple spatial confinement, where motion is restricted, and suggests the presence of a previously unobserved stabilizing mechanism. The sustained constant distance is not achieved through a lack of movement, but through a correlated dynamic equilibrium, indicating a novel form of stability arising from the interactions within the system. This dynamic preservation of distance is a key characteristic differentiating this system from traditional quantum mechanical scenarios.

Localization, observed frequently within the system, describes the phenomenon of particles remaining fixed at discrete positions over time. This is notable because typical quantum mechanical behavior anticipates particle delocalization, where particles are distributed across a range of positions described by a wave function. The observed localization is not a result of external confinement potentials, but emerges from the sustained inter-particle distance and the strong interaction regime \Delta = 10. The particles do not simply occupy these fixed positions statically; rather, they maintain these positions despite ongoing dynamic interactions, indicating a departure from standard quantum expectations regarding particle spread and movement.

Sustained constant inter-particle distance and the resulting localization are strongly correlated with the interaction strength parameter, Δ. Observations indicate that a value of Δ = 10 is critical for maintaining this behavior; deviations from this interaction strength diminish the observed stability and lead to a breakdown in constant distance maintenance. Specifically, the system exhibits a significant loss of localization capability when Δ differs substantially from 10, suggesting a narrow parameter range for this phenomenon. This implies that the observed stability isn’t a general property of interacting particles, but rather a consequence of the specific interaction strength employed in the simulations.

Entanglement entropy, calculated as defined in <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">Eq. (10)</span>, reveals consistent behavior across various initial separations and boundary conditions, including those exhibiting oscillatory patterns at <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">t=10</span> and initial positions of (1, 21), with parameters <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">L=23</span> and <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\Delta=10</span>.
Entanglement entropy, calculated as defined in Eq. (10), reveals consistent behavior across various initial separations and boundary conditions, including those exhibiting oscillatory patterns at t=10 and initial positions of (1, 21), with parameters L=23 and \Delta=10.

Beyond Stillness: Unveiling the Subtle Dance of Fluctuations

Although the average inter-particle distance within the system remains relatively stable, detailed analysis reveals quantifiable fluctuations around this mean value. These are not random deviations, but rather discrete changes in distance that are consistently observed. Specifically, we identify two primary modes of fluctuation: nearest-neighbor oscillations, representing a change in distance of one lattice unit, and next-nearest-neighbor transitions, characterized by a change of two lattice units. The prevalence and magnitude of these fluctuations indicate that the system, while exhibiting overall stability, is dynamically responsive to internal perturbations and does not maintain a perfectly static configuration.

Observed fluctuations in inter-particle distance are primarily characterized by two discrete variations: nearest-neighbor oscillations and next-nearest-neighbor transitions. Nearest-neighbor oscillations involve a change in distance equivalent to one lattice unit, representing a minimal displacement between particles. Next-nearest-neighbor transitions, conversely, involve a change of two lattice units, indicating a more substantial displacement. These transitions do not occur continuously but as discrete events, defining the nature of the system’s dynamic behavior and differentiating it from a purely static configuration. The prevalence and frequency of these oscillations and transitions are key metrics for characterizing the system’s responsiveness to external stimuli.

Characterizing the discrete variations in inter-particle distance-specifically nearest-neighbor oscillations and next-nearest-neighbor transitions-moves beyond a static view of system stability by revealing the nature of dynamic fluctuations. These variations demonstrate that the system is not rigidly fixed, but rather exhibits localized, quantifiable movements. Analysis of these fluctuations, in conjunction with metrics like the Loschmidt Echo, provides a more detailed understanding of the system’s response to perturbations and its overall energy landscape, as evidenced by the linear relationship between the Echo and energy difference y = ax + b with fitted values a = 1.4656 and b = -3.2525, and statistical measures of fit including R² = 0.9622 and RMSE = 0.3386.

The Loschmidt Echo, utilized as a quantitative measure of system stability and sensitivity to external perturbations, demonstrates a strong correlation with observed inter-particle distance fluctuations. Analysis reveals a linear relationship between the Loschmidt Echo and energy difference, mathematically described by the equation y = ax + b, where a = 1.4656 and b = -3.2525. This linear fit exhibits a high degree of accuracy, as indicated by an R² value of 0.9622 and a Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 0.3386, confirming the reliability of this relationship in characterizing the system’s dynamic behavior.

Oscillations in nearest-neighbor separation at boundaries are reflected in the time evolution of the probability density and the Loschmidt echo <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">L(t)</span>, with the angular frequency ω of these oscillations demonstrating a dependence on the energy difference <span class="katex-eq" data-katex-display="false">\Delta E_{1}</span> as observed across lattice sizes from 8 to 71.
Oscillations in nearest-neighbor separation at boundaries are reflected in the time evolution of the probability density and the Loschmidt echo L(t), with the angular frequency ω of these oscillations demonstrating a dependence on the energy difference \Delta E_{1} as observed across lattice sizes from 8 to 71.

The Diminishment of Connection: Suppressed Entanglement and the Promise of Robust Quantum States

Investigations reveal a notable suppression of entanglement entropy within the studied system, indicating the emergence of a quantum state markedly different from those exhibiting typical entanglement. Entanglement entropy, a measure of quantum correlation, falls significantly below expected values for maximally entangled states, suggesting a fundamentally altered form of quantum linkage. This isn’t simply a weaker entanglement, but a qualitatively distinct state where correlations are constrained, potentially due to the specific geometric arrangement and interactions within the system. The observed suppression hints at a novel pathway for creating robust quantum states, as altered entanglement characteristics can offer resilience against environmental noise and decoherence – a critical hurdle in the development of practical quantum technologies. This unique state presents an intriguing departure from conventional entanglement paradigms and warrants further exploration to fully elucidate its properties and potential applications.

The observed suppression of entanglement entropy correlates strongly with the system’s unique spatial arrangement and resulting particle localization. Measurements reveal entropy values consistently ranging from approximately 1 to 2.5, a notable deviation from the theoretical maximums of 4.52 (for systems with L=23 particles) and 4.85 (for L=29 particles). This diminished entanglement isn’t a result of weak interactions, but rather a consequence of maintaining a constant distance between particles, effectively localizing them and hindering the full development of entanglement typically seen in these quantum systems. This specific configuration, therefore, presents a pathway to engineer quantum states with predictably lower entanglement, potentially offering advantages in specific quantum applications.

The observed suppression of entanglement entropy suggests a pathway towards creating quantum states with enhanced stability against decoherence – the process by which quantum systems lose their delicate quantum properties and revert to classical behavior. Traditional entangled states are highly susceptible to environmental noise, limiting their practical application in quantum technologies. However, this research indicates that by engineering specific constraints on particle interactions and localization – resulting in lower entanglement entropy values – it may be possible to create states inherently more resistant to disruption. This resilience stems from a reduced sensitivity to external perturbations, potentially allowing for longer coherence times and more reliable quantum computations or communication. The ability to realize such robust quantum states represents a significant step towards building practical and scalable quantum platforms.

The theoretical framework describing suppressed entanglement benefits from a diverse range of potential experimental realizations. Researchers are actively investigating platforms such as Rydberg atom arrays, where highly excited atoms exhibit strong interactions, and trapped ions, offering precise control and long coherence times. Furthermore, systems involving cold atoms coupled to optical cavities present a pathway to enhance interactions and observe collective quantum phenomena, while dipolar systems, leveraging the inherent interactions between magnetic or electric dipoles, provide another compelling avenue for exploration. Each of these quantum simulation platforms possesses unique strengths, allowing scientists to tailor experimental parameters and probe the characteristics of this suppressed entanglement regime with increasing precision and potentially unlock novel quantum technologies.

The study of these quasiperiodic interactions reveals a delicate balance between order and chaos, a dynamic mirrored in Emerson’s assertion: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Current quantum gravity theories suggest that inside the event horizon spacetime ceases to have classical structure, yet this work demonstrates, even with long-range interactions, a persistent, approximately constant inter-particle distance. This observation, akin to forging a path where none existed, highlights the limitations of pre-established theoretical frameworks when confronted with systems exhibiting such non-trivial dynamics and the emergence of phenomena like localization. The mathematical rigor underpinning these findings remains experimentally unverified, yet it pushes the boundaries of understanding in many-body quantum systems.

Beyond the Horizon

The observed approximate constancy of inter-particle distance in this work, while intriguing, merely highlights the limits of simple intuition when confronting long-range, quasiperiodic potentials. Any claim of ‘localization’ or ‘oscillation’ must be regarded as transient behavior, subject to subtle parameter variations; a perturbation, however small, can irrevocably alter the system’s evolution. Numerical investigation, relying on solutions to the Einstein equations for stability, offers a temporary foothold, but carries no inherent guarantee of predictive power.

Future explorations should address the system’s behavior with increased particle number. The demonstrated dynamics, while analytically tractable for two fermions, will inevitably yield to complexity. The emergence of collective phenomena, or conversely, complete disintegration into uncorrelated states, remains an open question. Furthermore, extension to open boundary conditions, while explored, demands rigorous investigation of information leakage and its impact on the system’s perceived stability.

Ultimately, this work serves as a cautionary tale. The pursuit of precise prediction in complex systems is a self-imposed delusion. The theoretical edifice, however carefully constructed, may collapse into a singularity of unresolvable complexity, beyond which no meaningful statement can be made. The observed behaviors are, at best, fleeting glimpses of order before the inevitable descent into entropy.


Original article: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2603.25045.pdf

Contact the author: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avetisyan/

See also:

2026-03-28 11:01