Classical and Quantum Mechanics of The Damped Harmonic Oscillator - Dekker
Classical and Quantum Mechanics of The Damped Harmonic Oscillator - Dekker
Classical and Quantum Mechanics of The Damped Harmonic Oscillator - Dekker
H or a ast their chine counter) te inn appre Fut, te
‘that throophout the pecent teat represents the fice onl fede. while we wwe
ola reqeeney. This convention ea ome 8 [Lb i the revere of Hse [18,8
one considers force tee mation fr the genetal Sewmane-Hlavc-Albeccht mel ue. =O), the range ¢< 11 immediately Fuld ost
pPhysaly at ead toa exponential iereve ofthe Kinetic encry, Ths i cau sen 0 2.)Hi. Dekker, Caracal and quantum mechanic of he damped harmin oxi "
Gin = Op VO. 1s)
gg = ~ANCOpy 26 (2.16)
Gu = 20 + Aeon 17)
Considering Gaussian wave packets. the standard treatment of Heisenberg’s uncertainty relation
provides us with the additional relation {136. 164]
Gp Fux = + OF 2.18)
which allows the construction of a second order equation for o,. separately. Introducing the width w, of
the Gaussian wave packet by means of
WA = [mw 3] "7 exp[= (r= (x) Fw 2.19)
one obtains (see also [136))
Wotan = Awe
which immediately reveals the existence of a stationary solution oy, =
the associated uncertainty product reads
e2n
ding (2.18), the quantum mechanical fluctuations are not only preserved but even
enlarged by the dissipation, in fine with earlier made more general remarks (sce e.g. the Introduction,
below (1.2)). Unfortunately, the above stationary solutions for the Hasse-Allbrecht model are not
(asymptotically) stable (34, 37, 136, 238, 259-269]. For that reason we have purposely refrained from
adding them the argument = %, It is easy to see from (2.20), that this damped quantum oscillator will
exhibit persistent, undamped oscillations in its width if the system is initially not exactly in the above
found steady state. This feature is not observed in any of the other known models, and it is quit
unlikely to be physically realistic (136]. In closing the story on the Miinchen-model, it may be noted that
it was recently indicated by Stocker and Albrecht [43] how these nonfinear frictional potentials can be
generated formally within the framework of the fluid dynamical interpretation of the classical real space
Hamilton-Jacobi theory and Schrdinger’s wave mechanics.
Each of the above mentioned theories is essentially concerned with a Schrédinger equation
representation of the dissipative system and the associated effective Hamiltonian. However. in view of
the experience with fully quantum mechanical treatments of open systems (see e.g. [16-25. 50, 55-58,
61, 87-89, 200, 270-275}), actually mainly concerned with oscillators and their interactions with
oscillator-reservoirs, it seems more natural to seek a proper description in terms of mixed states rather
than pure states. Anyway, a quantum mechanical phase space description by means of a dei
operator is fundamentally more general than by means of a Schrdinger state vector. In the case of a
closed system (the universe) it can always be cast into a pure state representation, but not so vice versa
(Gee in this context also for instance (270, 276-287]). For that reason, already in 1975 [59] we have
introduced in fact the density operator from the very beginning in our mesoscopic approach to quantum
friction. The theory was further developed successively in (184, 24, 195, 196, 288, 258]. Trains of thought2 1H, Deter, Classical und quantum mechan ofthe damped harmon oscilator
along similar lines were revealed independently by Burzlaff [289]. Huguenin [2%] and Balazs (291). In
his mesoscopic approach, the present author has always emphasized the relation between Heisenberg-
Langevin quantal noise sources (operators. not classical functions) and additional diflusive-like con-
tributions in the master equation for the density operator.” This notion gives rise to typical quantum-
mechanical fluctuation-dissipation relations. For the linearly damped harmonic oscillator the charac-
teristic example is (see (7.36) and [24))
Duy - Dp =i, 2.22)
where the D's are diflusion coefficients. Dekker’s theory employs complex dynamical variables that are
directly connected with the usual quantum mechanical commutator algebra (see also (57. 58. 160-
164. 293-303], and more specifically: [114. 115, 137, 181, 197, 289, 290, 304-309). It ensures that in the
limit of vanishing friction the known undamped oscillator results emerge. and it also preserves the
uncertainty principle for nonzero dissipation.
‘At the end of this historical survey it is interesting to note that Hasse in 1979 (107,310, 311]
succeeded in making contact between the master equation and nonlinear Schriidinger equations in the
limit of weak damping (radiation damping limit). As it turns out, this relation implies a constraint on the
possible diffusion coetlicients. As expected. and as will be shown in the sequel, this condition guarantees
the survival of the uncertainty principle and the vacuum fluctuations for the oscillator under the action
of dissipating forces. In agreement again with the earlier expressed general ideas about dissipation and
Muctuations, the quantal vacuum fluctuations appear to be increased by the damping” (see also (2.21).
Hasse’s nontinear frictional Hamiltonian looks somewhat similar to the heuristic Stissmann—Hasse-
Albrecht species (2.9), but is definitely different. For example, Hasse’s model does not show the
peculiarity of the undamped, persistent oscillations in the width of the wavepacket. It is further
interesting to observe that Dekker’s theory of the linearly damped harmonic oscillator leads to a class of
specific diffusion coellicents all satisfying Hasse’s pure state Schrddinger representation condition if
considered in the weak damping and long time limit, which seems to add to the credibility of that phase
space approach (288).
As the outline of the present paper should be clear from the table of contents and from the abstract,
we now start our comparison of the various approaches to the damped oscillator problem in more detail
by considering the time-independent Bateman-Morse-Feshbach-Bopp Hamiltonian.
3. Bateman’s dual Hamiltonian
3.1, Classical mechanics
‘The classical deterministic equation of motion for the simple one-dimensional damped oscillator with
unit mass in Newtonian mechanics reads
The wigifcance of he nose operator the original paper [9] (xe abo in patclr [2 bas at always Deen propery recogsized [19,250]
Bat ee forthe cmtary e122)
To be pec, the increase mcasred with expect othe “abulute vacuum”. the lnlstedundamped oxi ese (which phyily
teat The teas of the zero-point uctatons shows tha the exciton i not laced inthe “ablute vacuum”, ut frat wth a reserve
{eg the electomapnctic or graitalional elds) which may be in it own ground sale, Sematically. the lem ground state i perhaps more
appropiate than vacuum steHE. Deter, Clascal and quanto mechanics of the damped harmon oct B
EF UE+ Mr =0 G1)
Its general solution has already been given in fact in (2.5). The equation (3.1) can be obtained as the
Euler-Lagrange equation
(La) -La=0 G2)
from the Lagrangian
L= ik - Oxi + Ale — 2), G3)
that is by a variation of the auxillary variable ¥ (1,2. 11, 113-116}. On the other hand, varying x leads to
E-2S+ ME =0, Ga)
which clearly represents the time reversed process of (3.1). The system (3.4) is called the mirror-image
oscillator of (3.1). The canonical momenta for the above dual system of oscillators become
peLse anak, Fela sites. @5)
Obviously, these differ essentially from the oscillator’s mechanical momenta, However, this is in no
sense an obstruction to the classical theory and the Hamiltonian is easily found to be
H = ph-A(xp- 3p) + ok, G6)
with w = (07 a7)! representing the reduced actual frequency. If not indicated otherwise. this reduced
frequency will be assumed to be real throughout the present text, That is, we shall mostly be concerned
with the underdamped case although occasionally results can be taken over to the overdamped case.
Hamilton's equations,
fH oh
; G7)
f2Ha.
of course lead back to (3.1) and (3.4). Almost trivially, the Hamiltonian (3.6) is a constant of the motion:
the energy dissipated by the original oscillator is completely absorbed at the same pace by the
mirror-image system. Nevertheless, in general this H is not equal to the energy of the total closed
system, not even in the limit of vanishing friction A | 0. This presents a first hindrance to the canonical
quantization of the physical system, as noted before, It can be remedied, however, by restricting the
solutions to the Hamiltonian equations to those for which both oscillators start off from the same initial
state. Yet there exists another difficulty. Namely, the only nonzero Poisson brackets of the above
classical theory would lead in quantum mechanics to the commutators”
or ypraphical reasons, andifthere cane no misunderstanding, we denote commutators by [ether tha |]. Anicommetators wil aways
be witen sf1" 1H, Dekker, Casical and quantum mechanic of the damped harmon exter
AL LRasin. G8)
[nal
Evidently, in view of (3.5) this does never imply a nonzero commutator between for instance the
position x and the mechanical momentum p = i. not even in the limit A | 0 where we know it should
exist. Thus, unless bold measures are taken, the quantum theory based on the Hamiltonian (3.6) can be
expected to be endowed with difficulties.
Nonetheless, it is rather interesting to survey the attempts at a quantum theory based on the
Bateman dual Hamiltonian. To the author's knowledge, there are only two papers to date on the
subject. Bopp's treatment [114] (see also [108] is closely related to a symplectic formulation (197] that
will be discussed furtheron; his presentation is somewhat loose and confusing.” The canonical
quantization procedure devised by Feshbach and Tikochinsky [113] is of a higher subtlety. It is this
‘more sophisticated approach that will be sketched here.
4.2. Quantum mechanical spectrum
As usual, the dynamical variables x, ¢ and &, are considered as operators in a linear space. They
obey the commutation relations (3.8); all other commutators are zero. The basic Hamiltonian is the
apparently Hermitian form (3.6). Then introduce the following annihilation and creation operators:
G9)
where «” is the customary Hermitian conjugate of a, Note that the bar can be considered as a formal
operation that will be called mirror conjugation.”* For the sake of completeness, we also list the inverse
transformations:
a an eee,
i vz a= Re eH), G.10)
The only nonzero commutators, after the above canonical transformation, are
G.11)
(3.12)
For example, his @ and a are not the sual Hermitian adjoint, See section 62, =
"Toe expliiti lew ofthe eto of motion (31) aad (8), mito conjuation i defined a (A> A: gee A1H, Dekker, Casical and quantum mechanic ofthe damped harmon oxilator 1s
and their conjugates, so that in effect
Filet A-iee+ 2. 6.13)
1 + =)
Wigle-A-iwe- a1. G4)
‘These new operators obey the same algebra as in (3.11), that is
(al. st']=[2,2"]=1,
all other commutators being zero. The transformed Hamiltonian (3.6) reads
H= Hot Hy G.16)
Hy = haol'sl - 8'R), @.17)
Hy=iha(a'a'- la). G.18)
The cigenvalues of "sf and B"A are the common ra, nu = 0.1,2,.... 80 that the eigenvalues of Ho
are fex(nq~ nu) with cigenstates |na, mu), belonging to Hilbert space. Notice that Hy represents the
srence rather than the sum of two free oscillator Hamiltonians (see also [116]). In the limit A | 0,
the known harmonic oscillator results emerge infact only if the @-oscillator is kept in its ground state,
for which |na,0)= 0.
In order to investigate the eigenspectrum of the full Hamiltonian (3.16), it is of advantage to define
y= Moll - 8'9), G
and to introduce
b.= Ua B" + ft),
4, = Silot'H - fB), 21)
4b. = Moll + 93’) (3.22)
Notice that
Hy= hobo, Hy = 2hAd, 3)
The cigenvalues of d, are natnut |), the eigenstates being the same as those of the free
Hamiltonian Hy, ic. of do. Indeed, Jo commutes with ¢,, as well as with 4, and ¢,. The algebra of
these spin-like operators is given by
[ond] =i de. (3.24)6 1H, Detker, Clascaland quanton mechan of he damped hamoncesilior
[$2] =id.. (3.25)
[d.d.1=i4,. 8.26)
Be aware of the difference in sign in (3.25) and (3.26) with respect to the usual spin algebra (see e.g,
[164, 300, 312-314). One easily computes now that
O5)= 5-5 (3.27)
Of course. $5 commutes with a. dy and d.. It is the only Casimir operator for the present algebra (as,
the rank is unity; see e.g. (163, 300, 315-318]. Further, let us conventionally introduce
Mngt na). (3.28)
= Mta-ne). 0
and label the eigenstates of Hs. do and g. as jn) rather than |r. ta).
To relate the eigenproperties of ¢, (in which we are interested in view of (3.23)) to those of 6.
(which are known), the Baker-Hausdorff relation 3] for the present algebra,
J. cos tid. sing, G29)
explads dy exp(-no.
is particularly useful (see also [168] p. 167). Namely, with = +7/2 one obtains
b= ti expl(n!2)b.} db; explt(7/2)b.b 3.30)
Therefore, the eigenvalue equation may be written as
Via = ile + WS, Gal)
where
Win! = expl#(/2)¢.} im) - 6.32)
The eigenfunctions ¥%;? do not belong to ordinary Hilbert space because they can not be normalized in
the usual manner. In fact, their conventional norm can be calculated, similar to the Wigner D-functions,
by means of Racah's methods (related to the better known Clebsch-Gordan coefficients; see e.g. (163,
164, 300, 303, 317, 318, 324-331). The result is [115]
Gil exp. him) = SEINE ("YC core. 6x)
where the sum runs over all integers /. Evidently, the norm (3,33) becomes infinite if ¢ = +7/2. This
may be remedied, however, by redefining the length of a vector as the inner product
(WW) = SE Mien G34)
where ¥7 represents the time reverse of ¥, and where S indicates summation or integration (with theDekker, Claseal and quantum mechanes ofthe dampel harmonic xan v
appropriate measure) over vector components, In the same way matrix elements, and in particular
expectation values. can be defined as
(HEY) = SEF Ko G35)
F being an arbitrary operator working to the right. The absence of a finite norm in the usual Hermitian
sense invalidates the standard proof that eigenvalues of self-adjoint operators are real. Therefore. the
eigenvalue equation (3.31) can be accepted as a proper result
Since go and @, commute, they may have simultancous eigenstates. Indeed, the eigenstates ¥2! are
also eigenstates of $v as dn commutes with @, too. So, the complete eigenspectrum of H will be known
if we determine the allowed values of m for given j. Defining
b.= dF be. (3.36)
one easily derives from the commutation relations (3.24)-(3.26) that
[d..6-]= tid... (3.37)
so that $. resp. are the raising resp. lowering operators for the eigenstates of .. In view of (3.31).
m can be taken to be nonnegative without loss of generality. Let my be the smallest value of m.
Then
bint 3.38)
where the vector is nonzero, Multiplication of (3.38) from the left with 6. and using (3.36) leads to
(OF =[de be]- 62) Hint = 0 G39)
Invoking the commutator (3.26), the eigenvalue equation (3.31), the Casimir relation (3.27) and the
known eigenvalues of go, one gets mi= j*, so that m = jl, 1+ ili] + L[j]+3.... In summary, the
eigenstates of the Bateman-Feshbach~Tikochinsky Hamiltonian are
WM) = exp{—2i wjt +A (2m + IF (r/2)b< Hine), (3.40)
the corresponding eigenvalues being
Uibil+s
HD = uj ihAQm +1); m
Gal)
If, in view of the earlier noted limit A 0, we keep the ‘-oscillator in its ground state with 1m = 0, 50
that 2j = 2m = ny =n, the eigenvalues become
HY = nhosifnt a; 0 20.1.2. 42)
This is almost identical to the spectrum found by Bopp [114]. In fact, Bopp’s procedure is somewhat
ambiguous in the separation of the dual oscillators. As will be seen more precisely furtheron, (3.42) is,
however, one of the possibilities allowed for by Bopp’s theory,H. Dekker, Clascal and quantum mechanics of he damped harmonic oxilltor
3.3. Wave packets
‘The result (3.42) for the eigenvalues indicates that the dissipation also afficts the lowest state m = 0,
as the imaginary part of the eigenvalues remains nonzero.” In this respect, it should be recalled that the
Feshbach-Tikochinsky quantum mechanics is based on the Bateman Hamiltonian for the dual x, <-
system, but that the mirror image oscillator in fact is nothing but a mathematical device invented in
order {o remain within the framework of conservative Hamiltonian classical mechanics. It should be
emphasized that the only physically observable system is the damped x-oscillator for which, however,
the correct commutator (x,p]= ih is absent from the theory (see (3.5) and (3.8)). Therefore, it is
particularly relevant to investigate in more detail the behaviour of the damped oscillator on its own. In
principle the eigenfunctions can be used to calculate the propagator (see e.g. [72]) and more general
wavepackets. But since the relation of the above obtained eigensolutions with the expectation values of
the original dynamical variables for the physical oscillator is not that straightforward (note for instance
that the <-oscillator in fact contains a mixture of both the damped and the adjoint oscillator; and e.g.
4. and x do not commute), it makes sense to turn to the time-dependent Schrédinger equation itself,
‘The solutions for the mean values and higher moments can be calculated directly from it, without
knowing the wave function explicitly, because of the linearity of the present system (see also eg,
(34,332,333).
The Schrdinger equation may be written as
iN, = [WAG ~ EA) + w*k]Y, G43)
The time reverse reads”
Hi RWT = [Apt ACxp~ Fp) + ore]. (3.44)
The equation of motion of the mean value (3.35) is easily obtained as
(FY (FH -(H"Y'F), (3.45)
where the superscript a indicates the real adjoint operator (e.g. [334)). It is not difficult to see that for
the Bateman Hamiltonian (H™)"= H, so that (3.45) reduces to its usual commutator form
(FY = -G/h\(R HY). (3.46)
By means of the commutation relations (3.8) one now easily computes the mean value equations
(y= Ga), 47)
GY = -AG) =~ wx), (3.48)
which, in line with Ehrenfest’s theorem, agree with the classical results and lead back to
iis pecnty this fatate that was eliminated in {1 in a ater adhoc mann.
To be cer time reversal is efectated by means of T= (i= 1 rmx pane Ek Pana1M, Dekker, lsc and quanton mechan of e damped harmon cil ®
(x) + 2A) + (x)= 0, (3.49)
the quantal version of (3.1). The mirror image oscillator is obtained from (3.47) and (3.48) by
interchanging x, p and & a and letting A-»—A. For the second moments one finds
xy = 2A (pe) +P) wx"), (3.50)
wy
(8) = -2A07)+ 26a) (3.52)
2A (FF) — 200i), G51)
which form a closed set of equations pertaining in effect precisely to the physical damped oscillator.
Note that. in view of the algebra of this model, (px) = (xf). Introducing the mechanical momentum
p= =~ Ax and the variances (see also the discussion of the Siissmann—Hasse— Albrecht theory, in
the Introduction)
One = Mpx + xp)— (p) (x). (3.53)
me = (9")- PY. (3.54)
ou = (8)- (2, (355)
one obtains
Ge = 2p + yp = PO. (3.56)
Gey = ~My - 2 op. (3.57)
Gun = 2 (3.58)
Note that presently (px) = (xp). Contrary to the Siissmann-Hasse-Albrecht model (2.15}2.17), the
present Bateman model apparently allows only for the steady state dps = Opp = Gus =0. Actually, the
time-dependent solution for ou, with o..(0) = A/22 and d.-(0)=0 (see also (136, 156, 180]) is easily
found to be
oul By a [+A sin20e+245 sin? ot] 659)
‘The associated momentum spread is,
om(ty = 82
[1A sin20r+245 si? wt] (6.60)
Clearly, in the end the uncertainty product» H. Dekker, Casical and quantum mechanics of the damped harmon olan
Gye [sy CY aera] os
ing Heisenberg’s principle. Notice that this violation occurs with certainty
once A¥0, no matter how small the friction coefficient may be. If A = 0, the model (3.56)-(3.58) does,
seem to reproduce the free oscillator equations, and allows for a steady state op: =0. Ope = ou.
However, as in the dual model p and x commute. even if A = 0, the relation (2.18) reduces in this case
t0 oo. = 03, = 0, which is manifestly at variance with well-established quantum phy:
vitably tends to zero, viol
34. Summary
Although Bateman’s time-independent dual Hamiltonian is correct classically. it has its problems in
quantum mechanics. It ean not readily be associated with the system's energy and it does not lead to the
correct fundamental commutator. Therefore, it violates Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle for the
physical oscillator, even in the limit of vanishing friction A | 0. This feature cannot be swept under the
carpet by a sophisticated treatment of eigensolutions.
4. Kanai’s time-dependent Hamiltonian
L. Classical mechanics
‘The explicit solutions to the classical Hamiltonian equations (3.7) for the Bateman
are
iltonian (3.6)
x(0)= [xy cos wt + (Ie) sin at], a
HO) = e"[acos wt - wy sin wf) ay
and similar results for #(¢) and }(¢). Let us first transform the irreversible part of the motion away by
means of the canonical generator””
FaxPeMt+iPeo™, 3)
which contains both the old coordinates and the new canonical momenta , &. One finds
X=Fy=xe™,
Fo=te™, Ga)
‘The new Hamiltonian H' = H+ F, becomes
H'= 93 + u°XX, 3)
Nove that 1X cine derive within Ihe framework
ce time reser Mental 19 complex conjugation the quantum thea.
"Thi enceator Fle. 9 A) isthe Ff Goldstein (I
1 Fevtbach-Tikochinsky theory 4 = falling he consent ening a8 tha‘HH. Detker. Classical and quantom mechanics of he damped harmonic oir u
which describes undamped oscillations at the reduced frequency w, as expected from comparing (4.1).
(4.2) and (4.4). Note that the new dynamical variables fulfil the same commutation relations (3.8) as the
old ones. Of course, H’ is a constant of the motion, equal to its il value H"(0)= PoPo+ w® XoXo,
For this to coalesce with the energy (at least in the weak damping limit) is suffices to consider Py = Py
and Xo= Xo. Because of the time-reversible nature of the new solutions, this entails P(f) = P(e) and
X()= X(0).
It is now convenient to extend the real coordinates and momenta into the complex plane, and to
introduce a canonical transformation from X, 9, X, F to Q. P,Q, P by means of
X=HQ+O)+(/2wKP-P), X= 4Q+O)-(i/2w\KP- P).
P=¥P+P)+(wl2Q-O), F=HP+P)-(wl2(Q-O). 4.6)
where the new variables can be taken to be real. In the end one only considers those solutions for which
Go = Qy and P, = Po, which confines the original variables again to real phase space. Note once more
that the bar can be formally considered as @ mirror conjugation. The inverse transformations may be
written as
PHiW(P+P)-iw(X-X)]. Q=-G/2w)(P-F)+iw(X+X)],
the other two following by mirror conjugation. Note the differences with the Feshbach-Tikochi
transformations (3.13) and (3.14). The only nonzero commutators (Poisson brackets) for the new
variables, of course, are
[QPl=in, (0? (8)
Inserting (4.6) into (4.5) yields
H’=\P?+w'Q?)+ (P+ 0") 9)
‘This Hamiltonian evidently represents the energy of two independent identical oscillators. For that
reason we shall focus our attention on one oscillator only, say the Q, P-system, The canonical generator
F=110+:AQ? (4.10)
then transforms Q. P into Y, [1 as (sec also (119])
P=Fo=M+iQ, Y=Fu 11)
Hence, the pertinent oscillator from (4.9) is described by (sce also (119, 120, 137, 181))
H’= P+ AY + PY? (4.12)
One further transformation (from Y, II to y. 1), generated by
FerYe™, (4.13)x 1H. Dekher,Casicl and quantum mechanics ofthe danped harman exilltor
yaF,=Ye™, (44)
while H" = H'+ F,, finally leads to
Hee heats lemay? ai
This is the well-known Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian (13. 14]. As noted before, historically, the
corresponding Lagrangian was already presented in Bateman’s original paper {11}. See further e.g. (10.
12, 96, 116-156, 180, 181, 275, 335]. In view of (4.14). (4.11). (4.6) with the constraint Q = Q and P = P.
and (4.4). one readily infers that x= X e™ = Qe = Ye™'= y. In the remainder of this section we
replace therefore y again by x
4.2. Quantum mechanics
The Hamiltonian (4.15) has in fact been constructed purposely so as to represent the energy of the
system, at least in the weak friction limit. As noted earlier, this scems to be one of the prerequisites for
the construction of a quantum theory. However, from the equation of motion for x, that is (3.1). itis
known that the irreversible part of x(¢) behaves like “and so does £(¢). Further, according to the
Hamilton equation
(4.16)
the canonical momentum behaves like e™. But then (4.15) would imply that there is no secular change in
the energy of the oscillator and, hence, there is no genuine dissipation at all (10, 275]. To be explicit. if
fs the solution for x(t) from (4.1) with j,=0 for convenience, makes use of (4.16),
substitutes into (4.15) and time-averages the Hamiltonian over any of its oscillation periods w/w, one
independent cesult H's, = $x}. This feature is most easily clarified by looking at the
Lagrangian belonging to (4.15). It may be written as (see Bateman (11] and e.g. [10, 128, 136))
5
(= 2"
(4.17)
with mass m(t) = my exp(At), our choice being mo= 1. This Lagrangian immediately allows for an
interpretation in terms of kinetic and potential energies. Physically, the situation described by (4.17)
might be realized for example by a frictionless pendulum consisting of a pail collecting rain [10]. See fig
4
Notwithstanding these considerations, the Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian (4.15) has been used to
study dissipation in quantum mechanics (e.g. (12-14, 96, 116-138]). Turning the only nonzero classical
Poisson bracket into a commutator gives
[x ]=ik (418)
Using again the Hamilton equation (4.16), this implies in terms of the damped oscillator’s mechanical1H. Dekker, Claeeal and quantum mechanics of he damped harmonic oxilitor 3
meme pai
Fig. 4.1, Model ora simple harmonic omilatior with atime dependent mas (after (1.
momentum p = ¥, that
[xp]=ine™ (4.19)
Hence, as is indeed found in known explicit quantum mechanical solutions, Heisenberg’s uncertainty
principle will be violated in the course of time.” This forbidding feature was already noticed by Kanai
[14], and most clearly formulated by Brittin [12]. It should be clear, however, from the preceding
discussion, that this can be considered as an inappropriate physical interpretation. If one agrecs to really
equate the model's Hamiltonian to the mechanical energy, the solution of the problem becomes simple
indeed: the quantal features of the system become increasingly irrelevant in the course of time as the
growing mass takes the particle from the initial microscopic domain to the ultimate macroscopic,
classical regime.
‘Thus, as far as the damped oscillator is concerned, it does not seem that we have much gained
beyond the time-independent Bateman-model (3.6). Nevertheless, before taking another view of the
matter, let _us briefly survey the results from the quantum theory based on the time-dependent
Bateman—Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian (4.15). The Schrddinger equation in the coordinate represen-
tation reads
thy = Wey + Lem MPY, (4.20)
Although the Hamiltonian is nonstationary, probability is conserved as the continuity equation
patizeO 21)
A recent clam that this can be remedied by simply considering the quantization in phase space as done in [137] i untenable. See ako
forteronu 1H. Debter, Casal and guanton mechanic ofthe damped harmonic ocr
holds with the probability and current densities respectively given by
prey. j=e MHI) Wd vd). (4.22)
It is easily verified that (4.20) allows for the following set of so-called pseudo-stationary states (see e.g
(96. 119, 129, 133):*
y= Np expl-i(n + Yor + 'At— (w + iA) e™s72h] H,(e"xV Th) 4.23)
where, =(w/rh)Q%nty", with n=0,1,,... For curiosity. compare this with (2.11) for the
‘Siissmann-Hasse-Albrecht model. And for the sake of completeness it could be mentioned that
Dodonoy and Man’ko (e.g. [133]. see also [10]) denote (4.23) as loss-energystates.“*
4.3. Quantum fluctuations
Since (4.20) is a linear partial differential equation, the pseudo-eigenstates (4.23) can be used to
construct more general solutions by superposition, for example Gaussian wavepackets (see e.g. (116,
128, 129, 131, 135, 136, 180)). See also (2.19). The mean values, of course, follow the classical path
obtained from (2.13) and (2.14): the widths of the packets require further investigation. From the
Schridinger equation one obtains the usual equation of motion (sce e.g. (3.46)) for the expectation
value of an arbitrary function of the canonical operators x and zm. For the second moments one re
finds
(an) = 6 ™(n) -e™ NU, a»
(ny =~ O(nx + x), (4.25)
(ey (wx + xm). (4.26)
It may be noted en passant that the Gaussian Heisenberg relation (2.18) presently holds not for p and x,
but in terms of a and x; that is
Onn = +02, (427
where the variances are defined by (3.53)~(3.55) with p replaced by m, Rewriting (4.24)-(4.26) in terms
of the variances for the mechanical variables p= ¢ and x, by means of (4.16). leads to
2G pe + Opp ~ VO (4.28)
= Hay 20 op. 429
Gur = 2p (4.30)
“Hie aware of we dilerences in ott, For instance. [133] #2 ad wate precy inkrchanged
Fin [133 the thors cone fin analogy wth fet time peri amitonane) the penocy of the Caliols-Kanai Hamitonan over
fopacements ih along the imaginary time Sts, ie, Hi wh) = HU). Thete consideration dct tad 19 a predo-igenspecium with
‘complex egenvalcs Hi = Rly +14¥in +!) The itiieanee of he spectra, however, remains in Yin,H Dekker, Case and quantum mechanics of the damped harmon exile s
which are readily observed to be identical to the corresponding equations (3.56)-(3.58) for the
Bateman-Feshbach—Tikochinsky model. The only improvement that has been obtained is the recover-
ing of the correct quantum mechanics if A = 0. The solutions to (4.28)-(4.30) with o,,(0)= h/20 and
Gu(0)=0 have already been explicited in (3.59)-(3.60), while the consequences for the uncertainty
principle are shown in (3.61). Of course, other initial conditions are possible too. As an example, one
might investigate the behaviour of the first and second moments for the pseudo-stationary states (4.23).
Note that the pseudo-groundstate yy is Gaussian. It is not difficult to see that (x) is strictly zero for any
rn. Hence (x)= 0, so that ()=0 and (p)=0, Further, using the standard properties of Hermite
polynomials, one finds
ohne
@3))
Substituting this into (4.26) learns that (mx + x7) is time-independent for all states y. Therefore the
L.h.s. of (4.24) is zero, wt leads to
(rym AE (nt 4x
Hence, the product
Oo ug (ntay 4.33)
is conserved in the course of time. This formula is the generalization of a result from 137] to arbitrary
n, However, it must be emphasized that (4.33) applies to the canonical momentum in stead of the
proper mechanical momentum.” In terms of the latter one finds
wnt, 3)
Cn
which, like (3.61), inevitably tends to zero even for the lowest state n = 0, thus violating the uncertainty
Principle whenever A>0.
44, Summary
In the course of improving the energy representation, the time-independent Bateman Hamiltor
has been related to the time-dependent Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian by a succession of canonical
transformations. However, if this Hamiltonian is indeed taken to be equal to the mechanical energy,
there can be no energy dissipation and the described system rather is a mass-accreting pendulum. The
alternative consideration of the Hamiltonian as a mere generator of the motion, leads to a violation of
the fundamental quantum mechanical commutator in the course of time. In fact, the uncertainty
should aso be noted therfore that (239) ~epeially wth m * Ofor the seo rounisat eseovally diferstrom Deber'sresh [195 See
abo frter om in he pretem arte e§,e9 (7.51,» 1H. Dekker, Cascal and quantum mechanic of Be damped harmonic oscil
product is identical to the exponentially decaying form (3.61) connected with Bateman’s dual Hamil-
tonian,
5, The semi-infinite transmission line
Sil. Preliminaries
In this section we will attempt to shed further light on the deficiencies of the above discussed
theories, in particular that of the time-dependent Hamiltonian, by considering an explicit physical
model. In fact we shall treat a mechanical model and an electrical model in a unified manner. The
essence of these models is the coupling of a privileged. tagged oscillator to a reservoir consisting of an
infinity of tiny other oscillators, and to let the latter system tend to have infinite size. In that case,
simply classically speaking. signals emitted by the tagged oscillator, which is the one under actual
investigation i.e. the subsystem of interest, can never (that means, within any finite time interval) return
to it by being reflected from the boundaries of the reservoir.
The electrical network model that will be discussed in the sequel is an adapted version of that of
Stevens, who's explorations were originally based on a suggestion by M.H.L. Pryce [157]. The
mechanical analogue of the electrical semi-infinite transmission line is a semi-infinite string. The present
formulation is akin to recent work of B. Yurke and O. Yurke (39]. Within the model's framework the
results are exact, More or less similar approaches have been presented for instance by Senitzky (50] and
by Ford, Kac and Mazur [38]. More general reference can be made eg. to (16-23, 41, 42, 53-58, 63, 92,
93, 168-179, 200, 27 S]. Further, itis interesting to note that historically the infinite harmonic
chain was already discussed in the early days by Hamilton [223] and in the beginning of this century for
example by Schridinger [339].
Let us first consider the mechanical model, depicted in fig. 5.1. A finite mass m, has been attached to
a chain of identical masses my = m (k= ), located at positions 2, and bound to each other by
harmonic forces. The mass my is further attached to a special harmonic spring with Hooke constant by,
while it is constrained by a frictionless guide to move up and down the x-axis. Clearly, if the tagged
mass mip were uncoupled from the harmonic chain, it would itself just be a simple undamped harmonic
oscillator with eigenfrequency £2 = (by/ma)'*. But if connected to the chain, it will excite the transverse
modes of this reservoir. In that way the oscillator may dissipate some of its energy into the chain, at
least for some time,
Fe. Mode fora mechanical ransision tine1H. Dekker, Casscal and quantum mechanics ofthe damped harmonic xilar ”
The latter proviso takes care of the following. If there were only a small number of elements in the
chain, the signal travelling away from the tagged oscillator would return to it almost immediately. If the
stumber of elements would tend to infinity while keeping the physical length A of the system finite, the
chain becomes an elastic string as depicted in fig. 5.2. But even in that case, by reflection from the far
end of the string, emitted signals return to the actual oscillator after a time period of the order of 2.4/c,
¢ being the average propagation velocity. The details of the dynamics would. of course. involve the
particular nature of the boundary condition at the far end. Clearly, only if A becomes arbitrarily large
there will be the possibility of dissipation for the tagged oscillator over an arbitrarily long time interval.
‘The infinite length is most easily incorporated by using periodic boundary conditions. which are
analogous to tying the transmission line to a characteristic impedance in order to prevent reflections.
‘The characteristic impedance, attached to the finite line at z = A, is simply equivalent to “an infinity of
more line” (72]
Fig. $2. The mechanical transmission ine of 5. inthe limit 0, but ict andthe ength Kept ie, J she tension of he sng ater 0,
It can hardly be overemphasized that there are thus two essential steps in reaching irreversible
behaviour if starting from reversible mechanics. First, the reservoir must have an infinite number of
degrees of freedom over which the energy drained from the low dimensional subsystem of interest can
be distributed. This is effectuated by taking the continuum or field limit, In terms of the normal
(Fourier) modes of the reservoir, however, this still means a discrete spectrum entailing a finite
recursion time. That is, the system will exhibit periodicity, which is a typically reversible phenomenon.
Therefore, second, the system must have infinite size. This is sometimes called the thermodynamic limit
(see eg. (28, 34, 37, 52, 238, 332, 340, 342)), In terms of the normal modes this means a continuous
spectrum. It implies an infinite recursion time. As will become evident, both steps must be taken for the
following program to be carried through.
5.2. The mechanical model
‘The classical mechanical Lagrangian for the harmonic system shown in fig. 5.1 reads
SF tun om)
where J = b(d-du) is the bias force applied to the little springs, which posses a rest length fy and
Hooke constant b, = b. The quantity J is usually called the tension of the string (e.g. [343}). The index» Hi, Dekker, Casucal and quanti mechanics of the damped hamoneoxloe
K€ [0..N] measures the distance along the z-axis, which is along the chain, according to zx = ke The
tagged oscillator is at : = 0. The canonical momenta following from (5.1) are
Paz Las mi. 62)
so that the Hamiltonian becomes,
sacri trish 3 ott SS wn 6.3)
‘The first Hamilton equation. as usual, reproduces (5.2). The second equation leads to
Pee -Hay= (Tiere tas KEL 6.4)
H = ~bota + (Tid xr xa) (63)
Be
so that the (Newton-Lagrange) equations of motion become
mig = (Teer at teas KEL 5.6)
moka boku = (Fld) (X= x0) 67)
Letting now the number N of chain oscillators tend to infinity. keeping the length of the string fixed at
A= Ne, so that /| 0, and confining oneselves to differentiable physical solutions x(z, f) the above set
of coupled differentiabdifference equations leads to the following two coupled partial differential
equations:
Kal N= Cras — 2>0, (8)
(0,1) + 27x(0, 1) = 4.210458) 69)
Equation (5.8) is just the usual wave equation (e.g. (83, 113]) for the transverse vibrations of the string.
‘The speed of propagation is given by c= (Tip)". with p being the mass density p = mid, kept finite
while ¢ | 0. Further 2 = (bu/my)"?, while x = J/my can be considered as the coupling constant of
oscillator and reservoir. In terms of the fields, the Hamiltonian may be written as
H= pO.) F + O7[x0. OF + f Mp. OP + if. OF bdz (5.10)
where the canonical momentum density is conveniently defined as p(s) = pile if k 2 1, while p(0) = pa,
and where we have chosen p = mu= 1, so that
pe. = x1) 6.11)1H. Dekker, Casal and quantum mechan ofthe damped harmon exile >
for all z. With these choices” the only nonzero Poisson brackets lead to the commutators
[x20 ple". 0] = 1h - rv'40, (3.12)
{x00.0.p0. 0] =ih (6.13)
5.3. The electrical model
The electrical analogue of the above mechanical model has been sketched in fig. 5
resonant circuit, with selfinductance fp and capacity eo. is coupled to a chain of identical tuned circuits
with selfinductance l, = I and capacity e, = ¢(k ). As indicated in the figure. all transverse
currents are taken positive into the positive x-direction, all longitudinal currents are similarly defined
along the positive z-axis. Going around any circuit, Kirchhoff's voltage law (usually called his second
law: see e.g. [37. 44.345) yields
The tagged
giles + leh ~ queslenes= 0. 6.14)
where q represents the charge at the kth condensor. and where J, is the longitudinal current through
the kth circuit located at 2. Differentiating (5.14) with respect to time and using the relation
quer = Fuees for the transverse currents, one obtains
Teale t hel Laalens
0, (6.15)
with the understanding that J ..0= ‘a. The other Kirchhoff law, expressing current conservation at the
vertices, relates the transverse currents to the longitudinal currents as,
Fane Lee
(6.16)
pte
ht
oT anode aie
° @ zs zs 2 >?
Fig 5. Mode! for an elec rancmision lite fate (157,
An aerate, xedia |) evintoduce apa dependent macedensiyp(2)= p+ m+) Inthateaw.(8|2)and(SSjeanbe presented
a singe forma, in fet (812,x H. Deer, Clas and quantum mechanic of he damped harman exile
Inserting this into (5.15) one finds
lig = (Velen 2h thea): KEL 6.17)
(6.18)
oho (Meo)lo= (Ve Yh
which are immediately seen to be completely identical to their mechanical counterparts (5.6) and (5.7)
In the limit of an infinite number of circuits in the chain, keeping the length of the transmission line
fixed again at A=N¢/, one obtains the partial differential equations (5.8) and (5.9) with the appropriate
definitions: the propagation velocity becomes ¢ = (Iil'e’)"3, where I" = Ud and e' = cl are the specific
selfinductance and capacity respectively; the characteristic frequency of the tagged circuit becomes
= ({Ilvco)', while the coupling constant is « = IMac’. The model, be it mechanical or electrical, will
now be further explored on the basis of (5:8) and
Sat, The classical damped oscillator
Following d'Alembert the general solution of the wave equation (5.8) may be written as (sce e.g.
[s3)
(2.1) = xalt 2c) + xu(t+ zie). (5.19)
The xq, respectively x» represent waves travelling to the right (outgoing. so to speak, from the point of
view of the tagged oscillator) respectively to the left (incoming from the bath), Using (5.19) one readily
verifies the identity
¥(2, 0) = —(Ie)x (2, )+ Beanz), (5.20)
‘so that (5.8) can be recast into the form:
#(0,)+2A.2(0,1)+ 2? x(0,) = 4Ax0,(0,1), (521)
where A= «/2c. It should be noted that d’Alembert’s solution typically applies to the wave equation.
‘That is, the exact and complete separation (5.19) into left- and right travelling waves would in principle
not have been feasible if we had not already taken the limit to continuous fields (i.e. the first step
mentioned earlier: N+ =, | 0, A = Ne finite), Hence, the equation of motion for the tagged oscillator
could not have been given the appearance of (5.21) (compare especially with (157).
Now in prequantal classical theory one may conceive of the situation that there are no incoming
‘waves at all present in the transmission line at the initial time, say ¢=0. Exciting at that instant the
tagged system at z = 0 will, of course, produce waves travelling to the right. But, as noted earlier, if the
transmission line were semi-infinite, these outgoing waves would never be reflected back, i.e. they
‘would never be transformed into incoming waves. In other words, if xa(z, 0)=0 for all z= 0 and A ==,
cone has classically that xg(z, ¢) =0. Hence in that case (5.21) reduces to
¥0, 1) + 2A 20, 1)+ 0? x(0.1)=0, (8.22)H. Dekker Cusica and quantum mechs ofthe damped harmon oxo u
which is exactly identical to the classical equation of motion (
oscillator. See also fig. 5.4
However. in general the very special initial condition of no incoming wave excitations being present
in the reservoir field will not be encountered in real physical systems. Normally there are at least
thermal excitations. and these do not discriminate between left- and right travelling waves. And in
quantum mechanics. even at zero temperature there would still exist the zero-point excitations of the
oscillators in the transmission line. The basic reason for this. of course. is that if the line is capable of
transmitting signals. its microscopic elements must be emitters as well as absorbers. Hence. in quantum
theory the inevitable excitation/de-excitation processes in the reservoir can not be circumvented. For
that reason, in constructing the model's quantum mechanics we must carry along the incoming waves.
i) for the linearly damped harmonic
Fig. $4 The mechanical damped olin,
5.5, Normal mode expansion
‘The total field in the transmission line can be written in terms of its normal modes as
x2,.9=235 Vag expl-iay (t~ 2/c)} + By expl-iay(¢+ zfe)}+conj.], 2)
where “conj.” means complex (Hermitian) conjugation in classical (quantal) theory. However, for a
finite transmission line the left- and right travelling modes are not independent of each other as a
consequence of the boundary conditions. The most general boundary conditions pertaining to the wave
equation are of the so-called mixed type (see e.g. [83, 113, 346, 347]), but it suffices to illustrate the point
by considering for convenience the Dirichlet condition x(A, 1) = 0. This leads to
Ax expli anAle) + By exp(-iaAle) = 0,
Al exp(-i aAle)+ BE expliarAlc)=0, (6.24)
so that
ATA, = BIB. 625)
Hence, we infer the relation
Ac= By expl-2ies), (5.26)2 1H. Dekker, Casicl and quantum mechanic ofthe damped harmonic oxilltor
‘ex as yet being an arbitrary scalar. The boundary condition at the near end z = 0/of the transmission
line is simply given by the equation of motion (5.9) for the tagged oscillator. It gives in principle two
constraints involving the As. By and their conjugates. Inserting the relation (5.26), these constraints are
found to be identical and one is left with
tg 4 = (0?~ wi)/2Aor, (6.27)
where we have used the relation «/c = 2A. Finally, inserting (5.26) into (5.24), the eigenvalues follow
from
wAle~g.=(k-Hm; K=1,2... (5.28)
In fact, the above procedure is precisely the one used by Yurke and Yurke (39].” Since their ultimate
results are identical to those obtained presently,“* we here face an explicit confirmation of the general
expectation that the precise form of the boundary conditions at the far ends of a system should
somehow become irrelevant in the thermodynamic limit of infinite system size A+ (see also
(348-350)). Therefore, it is a useful common practice to introduce the most appropriate, though
physically somewhat artificial, boundary conditions for large systems, namely periodic boundary
conditions, from the outset. So we return to the normal mode decomposition (5.23) and require x(z, 1)
to be periodic over A. This leads to the two conditions
Ag By = Ax expli andle)* By exp(-iaaAle). 6.29)
and their conjugates, Either adding or subtra ed in (5.29) yields in stead
of (5.28)
ig the two equations cont
Dens (6.30)
wAle = 2kz ;
which fixes the eigenvalues without requiring any relation between the mode amplitudes.
5.6. The quantal damped oscillator
The normal mode amplitudes are now determined by the initial conditions as
(hax J dz exp(-i anz/c) [ax x(z, 0) +i plz, 0)]. 631)
a = Chay? f dz exp(iwaz/e) fon x(2,0) +i ple, 0), (632)
plus their conjugates. In these formulae we have used the canonical relation (5.11). By means of these
FLet ks and gy = 2-8 for complete equivalece
** Hhowcver there anil problem invlsed a their eigenfunctions ar at sly orthogonal. This act reuites farther study. i may be
related t probleme of divergences, See ee (8),Hi Dedker, Clasico and quanti mechanics of the damped haron oslo s
transformations one easily verifies that the only nonzero commutator for the reservoir field variables,
that is (5.12). leads to
[Av Ail=(B.. BI] = bu. 533)
any other conceivable commutator being zero. Evidently, the Ax. By and Ai. BY are the annihilation
respectively creation operators for the normal mode excitations. We have now prepared the system
adequately for the limit 4+ (.e. for the second step to be taken). essentially implying the (linear)
independence of the incoming and outgoing waves.
Now substitute the pertinent part from the normal mode expansion (5.23) for the incoming driving
field on the r.h.s. of the equation of motion (5.21) for the actual oscillator. Then define
y()= x0.) n0). (634)
n= In. (5.35)
such that n,(f) must be solved from
i++ = 1d LM CBE expliont)= By expC-ien)« 636)
with the initial conditions ¥(0) = m(0) = 0. Asa result one obtains
tray + ay =0, 6.37)
with y= ¥(0.0)
means of elementary analysis [351.
(0.0) and_y(0) = x(0,0), The required solution from (5.36) is easily found by
52] to be
m(onia [M2 (B, a.(0-coni.1, (5.38)
sepa eee
~ P+ 2h,
ay et (Leppert) 639
{+ axlw)+ Si alo, (5.40)
¢ w = ((F— A)" is the reduced classical frequency as before. What has been achieved is in fact
teresting. The result (5.37) shows that y(#) represents the position of a classical damped
oscillator, even in the case that there do exist incoming signals from the semi-infinite transmission line
In other words, the dynamics of a classical damped oscillator can be obtained in an exact manner if one
subtracts the incoming reservoir signals (thermal noise, for instance) from the actual oscillator variables.
‘This represents a well-defined example of so-called smoothing (sce eg. [29.66.353]) by nois
subtraction (157]. The explicit solution for the smoothed variable y(t), satisfying (5.37) and the required
initial conditions, reads
y(0) = e-{x(0.0)c0s at + (1/a)[(0.0) + Ax (0.0) sin ea} . Gal)a 1H. Dekker, Case and quantum mechanics of the damped harmone oxcilator
5.7. Connection with Caldirola-Kanai model
Following Stevens. we now conjecture that a time-dependent canonical transformation exists from
(0.1), p(0.1) to y(t), (2) with y() given by (5.34) and the new, noise-subtracted momentum defined as,
pO. t= H(A (642)
(0
In view of the initial conditions on n(t). one immediately concludes from (5.13) that
Ly). rO)] =i, 6.43)
while any other commutator at 1 = 0 will be zero. This gives reason to calculate the time derivative”
LO. 70}
Cad eb
iP L(0.9. Bt e'™= Be}, 6.4)
where we have used (5.11), (5.21) and (5.36). According to (5.32), the normal mode amplitudes are
expressible in terms of the initial values x(2.0) and p(:.0). For the further evaluation of the
commutators on the r.h.s. of (5.4). it is therefore useful to observe that (5.41) expresses the smoothed
position y(@) for all times entirely in terms of the initial values x((,0) and (0.0) at z= 0, As these
commute with any of the field variables on?* : €(0, A), it can be concluded that y(e) = (0, 1)— n(0)
commutes with the driving force of the bath at any time, Therefore, (3.44) is equal to
=
[y(o. mio] = 21a e™ {1-5 Ve into. Bem — Bem} (5.45)
Since n(t) has been expressed in terms of the BL, By by means of (5.35) and (5.38)-(S.40), the
commutator can now be calculated explicitly, Using the algebra (5.33), one easily obtains
[y(n r= (5.46)
We now take the actual infinite system size limit .1 +=, so that in view of (5.30)
Cri) Z(le f du’, 647)
which yields
by. #0 = (48)
he much spl.
¢ rer. while the arse commutator S13) at: = 0
wise atthe preven meta arn
is comaied ia (31) and (32) aly with meas
One may of coure comput he
7" Note for the sae of til. hat
ss pomingtarH Dekker Cased and quantum mechanics ofthe damped harmime exile s
where we have further used the relation 2A/c = cplT = plmy= | (see (5.8)-(5.11)]
can be evaluated analytically as
” The integral
‘ | ooo
ae | (ema wrarrele af C
Hence,
br. 0) =0,
‘so that, in view of its initial value (5.43),
[y@. 7o]=ih 631)
at any time 120. Other commutators can be handled similarly to show that y(0) and x(¢) are indeed
proper canonical variables. Note that in proving (5.51) we have used the nature of the solution for y(t)
in going from (5.44) to (5.45). In fact, the precise explicit form (5.41) of that solution, together with the
corresponding expression for #(), was used by Stevens [157] to arrive at the same conclusions. Thus. to
be clear, whereas Stevens’ proof involves the explicit formulae for the smooth (noise-subtracted)
oscillator variables, the present treatment rather makes use of the explicit expressions for the noise (0).
‘The results are the same. Further note that the transformation replaces x(0., 1) and p(0.1) by y(t) and
(1). but that it does not affect the normal mode amplitudes of the reservoir z € (0, ).""
From (5.34), (5.11), (5.42) and (5.37) it is clear that the canonical equations for the noise-subtracted
tagged oscillator variables are
(5.52)
Hi,=-e"My 653)
Evidently, the total Hamiltonian H’ will therefore consist of two commuting parts H" and H’, where H"
generates the dynamics of the smoothed oscillator and where H'% merely pertains to the reservoir,
That is.
Hi = H+ HalAy AL: Ba BLD. (5.54)
(5.55)
The latter effective Hamiltonian for the smoothed oscillator is an exact isomorph of the original
Foe the elcid mn he choice = my =| atte int = ly, 4 tha again 2We* le?» Py Ue Belo (S18,
‘Recall ht v(t an iiarty 0 commute withthe Bk fe (540-(84)}, The sme argument of core apis the“ H. Dekker, Castel and quantam mechanics ofthe damped harmon oscillator
Bateman-Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian (4.15). However. the different physical significance of the
canonical variables in (5.55) and (4.15) must not be forgotten. The present mode! does not violate the
fundamental commutator (x. p]=if in the course of time. in contrast with the standard Caldirola—
Kanai theory. As we have seen, the single reason for this is the absence of noise (jie. the usually
thermal, incoming signals for the same subsystem, the reservoir. that accounts for the dissipation) in the
latter phenomenological classical approach,
These findings. originally most clearly formulated within the present context by Stevens in 1961 [157].
were in fact corroborated at about the same time by Senitzhy (50. 384]. However, the latter did not
discuss the connection between the harmonic oscillation-reservoir model and the Bateman~Caldirola~
Kanai model. His treatment is limited to the weak damping approximation (frst order in A). whereas
the present formulae are still exact within the model's framework. Actually, itis somewhat hard to see
good reasons for restricting the treatment to the weak damping limit. It is very well conceivable that the
single privileged oscillator. which is under investigation, is strongly damped while the vast majority of
the oscillators in the essentially infinite reservoir still is in the same equilibrium state as in the weak
damping case, The amount of energy dissipated by the tagged oscillator will always be negligible
compared to the total energy content of the reservoir. See further section &
SS, Svin'in’s reamment
Consider the classical Hamiltonian (5.55). The canonical generator
Femytmen()-ye™ al) (5.56)
transforms y, 7 into x. 7, as follows:
ae, ytn) (5.57)
Compare these formulae with (5.34) and (5.42). The new Hamiltonian H™= H+ F, becomes
Ht = sear +e Mx? — eB) x, (5.58)
where an irrelevant term independent of m.,x has been disregarded, and where we have used (5.35) and
(6.36), so that
Bray Hee exp(i ext) — By exp(-iwst)). (6.59)
‘The Hamiltonian (5.58) has precisely the form of the Hamiltonian introduced by Svin‘in in 1976 [180].
It was recently also used by Brinati and Mizrahi {181}. investigating its quantum mechanics in complex
phase space (see also [156, 195)). Svin‘in treated B(t) as a classical, Gaussian delta-correlated thermal
Langevin noise source in order to remedie the observed violation of Heisenberg’s principle in the
original Caldirola-Kanai quantum theory (see refs. quoted below (4.15). That is. Svin'in’s Ansatz is
quite akin to the Langevin-Wiener assumptions (1.4) for the process &(1) as discussed in the Intro-
duction.
Let us presently calculate the correlation function of B(#), as given in (5.59). explicitly. Considering1H. Dekker, Casical and quantam mechanic ofthe damped harmon oxillaor a
the noi
in principle to be of a quantum mechanical origin. we determine the symmetrized Weyl
Wigner (276, 277] correlation function in order to obtain a real outcome. Then. using the properties of a
thermal bath (see e.g. (19. 23. 50, 37, 164)).
(BLBi) = (exp(hax/kaT)~ 1) Sar. (8.60)
one easily obtains in the infinite system limit:
BC+ 2). BOL) = f Aw) c0s.'r da’, 561)
7
where 9 represents the modified Planck function (1.11). Evidently, the noise from the transmission line
is quite different from being delta-correlated. Actually, although the thermal part converges, the
integral in (5.61) does not even exist because of the diverging zero-point contribution. Only in the
extreme classical limit ky, (5.61) can be reduced to
(B(t+ 7) BE) = (E(t + 1) (0) = 4AkyT3(7) (6:
From comparison with its definition (14), we sce that this would imply a diffusion coefficient
D=2AkwT.” Of course, the integral in (5.61) does converge if we drop the zero-point fluctuations, but
that would spoil the cure of the deficiencies of the damped oscillator as observed in the Caldirola—Kanai
theory. On the other hand, treating the bath (semi-) classically and ascribing the vacuum fuctuations in
fact merely to the tagged oscillator must be considered rather unsatisfactory. to say the least.
Notwithstanding that the correlation function (5.61) can not be calculated in general, the spe
density defined by (1.5) does exist. If w >0, one obtains
q
Sy(w)= 4A Pw). (5.3)
while Sy(~w) = S(w). Defining a frequency dependent diffusion coefficient by means of Sulw) = 2D(w),
one has D(w) = 2AP(w). 's Ansatz amounts to the assumption that only the actual value of the
spectral density at the free oscillator frequency w = £2 will be relevant to dynamical quantities of the
damped oscillator. Intuitively, this will at least require weak damping. But, as should be understood
from the preceding, this is by no means sufficient
For complete equivalence with Svin‘in’s treatment [180] we can simply replace in the Hamiltonian
(5.58) B(0) by £(2) with the properties (I.4) and the diffusion coefficient given by D = 24P(M), Hence."
(E(Q)=0, (E(t + 2) E(N) = 2D 4(r),
D=AhQ cothnQlkyT) (6.64)
This is tice as large a the difeson cei inthe Intrastion. See expec (1.1), (15) and (1). Both ere a there 24 hax been
chosen asthe telaation constant ofthe energy. However. presetly not only the momestam Bul ab the potion carticn energy, Thetloe. in
thermal equiriam now E = kyT instead of {ka7 (ue below (1) shih explains the factor two nthe desion cocticient
o Note that Svivia's @ = 2, while iw the preset 1? andthe present w BN™ HE Dekker, Cac and quantum mechanics ofthe damped harmonic excl
‘As usual, one may compute the equations of motion for expectation values from (3.46) with H +H”, or
equivalently directly from the Schrdinger equation
Ghd = Hm. x. (OW (5.65)
Note that the averaging procedure will consist in fact of two parts: first. the common quantal averaging
with J. and second, the thermal averaging of &(/). In terms of the mechanical variables the result for the
variances reads
Gps = ~2ho pe + Op ~ Pon + Ux) £0). (5.66)
gy = ~Sdohy ~ Poy, + 2p) EO) (5.67)
Gu = 20 (6.68)
The quantities (p)€) and ((x)£) are easily calculated following the lines of standard Markov-Langevin
theory (sce e-g. [19, 21. 23, 24, 37, 57-59, 65, 66, 92] and the Introduction). That is, formally integrating
the equation of motion of the as yet merely quantum mechanically averaged momentum,
(p)" = -24(p)- 4) + 60), (5.69)
and using (5.64) and ((x(1’)) €(0)) = 0/if ¢' <1, one finds ((p)g) = D. Similarly, by means of (x)‘ = (p), one
obtains (x)) = 0. Hence,
Gp. = Dt + Oe Dare, (5.70)
in = App ~ Poy, + 2D, 571)
Gag = hn (672)
D given in (5.64). The only, but essential difference between (5.70)~(5.72) and the original Caldirola—
Kanai model (4.28)-(4.30) is the present additional time-independent term in the equation for opm.
which is due to the noise. It is a matter of straightforward calculation to obtain the solution with
(0) = 0 and 044(0) = A/20. It reads
[ison Ge) ][t+Bsinaore2ASstae]. 679
An h
oult)= ano (star 7)* 3° Tyr)
the associated result for the momentum spread being
12 coy (AL) 4 Me Phan (at ie
Om(t) = “Scot at) tre [1-« coth (sf (5.74)
The ultimate value of the uncertainty product becomes
ein) 0.) = cont (575)H. Dekker, Casal and quantum mechanic of the damped hamonc oscillator »
0 that the uncertainty principle is preserved. albeit-as discussed -somewhat artificially. As they
should, (5.73) and (5.74) reduce to (3.59) and (3.60) in absence of the noise.” Finally. it is worth
mentioning that the above formulae can also be obtained entirely classically from the Fokker-Planck
equation (see e.g. (21. 32, 34-37, 4447, 51, 56-58. 62. 66, 73, 76, 90. 92. 231, 242. 332, 333]) for the
probability density“* W(p, x,t) associated with the Langevin equation (5.69).
W, = pW, +P W, + 2A9W), + DWip (5.76)
This connection will be made more precise in the sequel. See section 7.
5.9. Transmission line fluctuations
Returning now to the genuine transmission line model, it should be noted that in principle it can be
solved exactly, without enforcing the Markov hypothesis. Namely, the dynamics of the well-defined
noise-subtracted variables is governed by the simple linearly damped harmonic oscillator equation
(5.37), that can be solved easily. In fact, the evolution of the position is given explicitly by (5.41). Let us
just consider the final state in some more detail. Clearly y() = 0, so that the actual oscillator position
acquires the noisy value x(0,%)= n(). Hence, denoting (0, ) by x(t) for convenience. (x()) = 0.
More generally y"(=)=0 with n= 1.2,.... For the second moment one thus gets, using the above
result for the first moment, (x7())=(n7(#)). Invoking (5.35) and (5.38) for n(1). and using the
properties (5.60) of the thermal bath, one finds“**
ea oes a
es 6m
), where the modified Planck distribution (1.11)
(o=¥3)4 Det,
Confining ourselves to the zero temperature case T =
reduces to Mw") She, the integral in (5.77) is most easily evaluated setting a’
with 0’ dao’ = Aw dx and w = (f2=A2)'*. The upshot is
aoa arccote ( “a ) (5.78)
This result agrees with Yurke and Yurke’s [39] and is also consistent with the formula of Ford, Kac and
“= In the weak friction limit (5.78) can be expanded in a Taylor series as
Al-3+-@)) 6
where, for future comparison, one should note the occurrence of a term linear in A.
2 Recall hat (420-4, fo the Calista Kapa mate catia (354)-(8.88 forthe dust Bateman ve
7° Sic in (S458 ys the Weyl-Wigner syemitied expense, th Une maser equation (576) si fax aed by Wigner’
dst anton [277 See ao xpcily i view of (54) aT = 0, (2,256,
Real the elation 2c 1, Sco (8-8)
seer in| iy = 243040 = 1124 In|] reps the Planck function Py Remodel Pet T= Wamlcakula thir (2), thf» 4 aula = 2
se Se SILo H, Dekker Casal and quantum mechanics of the damped harmonic exile
Finally it is not difficult to see that the formula pertinent to o79() will be (p°(=)) = Gi*(=). At
one obtains
Opel
2hA w dw’
2 ote ea)
As it stands.” this expression cannot be evaluated as the integral diverges logarithmically. Hence,
the semi-infinite transmission line mode! does not allow the evaluation of the uncertainty relation.
unless we would disregard the vacuum fluctuations from the oscillators in the reservoir. That, however.
would imply the violation of the uncertainty principle for the tagged oscillator at low enough
ierpeednee
5.10. Summary
‘The semi-infinite transmission line model shows that two steps must be taken in order to arrive at
irreversible behaviour of a subsystem (the tagged oscillator at the near end of the line) if starting from
reversible dynamics for the system as a whole. First, for finite system size, the number of degrees of
freedom must become (spatial continuum or field limit). Second, the size of the system must
become infinite (spectral continuum or thermodynamic limit). Then left and right travelling waves in the
line can be completely separated. In quantum mechanics there will always be fluctuations present in the
incoming waves at the subsystem. This noise source remedies the violation of the fundamental
commutator for the tagged oscillator. The noise is non-white, and unfortunately the uncertainty product
for the damped oscillator cannot be evaluated as it becomes infinite, save for the limit of vanishing
frietion a 0.
6. The dual Hamiltonian and complex caleulus
6.1. Complex symplectic model
6.1.1. Classical mechanics
Recently a complex symplectic formulation for the damped harmonic oscillator has been proposed by
Dedene [197]. touching the problem from the point of view of geometric quantization (see eg.
{355-369]). Apparently, Dedene was stimulated in his investigations by earlier attempts of the present
author to describe the damped oscillator in terms of complex dynamical variables [59, 24, 195, 258). The
relation between these complex variables theories will be studied in some more detail furtheron,
Currently we will show that Dedene’s Hamiltonian is connected with the time-independent dual
Bateman Hamiltonian (3.6) by a simple complex canonical transformation. In fact, it is precisely the
transformation used previously by the present author [59]
We do a comiler a feyactcy cute [6]. mor any monaco etic moicaion of the mrs, Nor ds we com the extreme
liu 4 [spay tn tha ose (88) ea be evaluated 35 waa trading Dia’ sdsadibtion, Using 4) en hen he a = AID
the Sundar ret forthe wndamped hare onclatr erovdnate The extension of auton theory ever the extreme ME A!
tortemly under ivesigation. The have Hay ae closely elite to the “pace fine” of Hadamard [S18] andthe moka Ihory of ener
functions devcopey Schwa {S10 Temple [53 ad Liphtl [S21] Sean (4,91, 522 29, The rus ihe pushed ehewhere, See ahothe
fate below (5290H, Detter, Classical ond quantum mechanics of the damped hamonc oxo a
In the canonical transformations
1)
the dynamical variables z and i Z = m, (as well as their complex (or Hermitian) conjugates) play the role
‘of a canonically paired coordinate and momentum. The wiggle on z indicates a formal complex
(Hermitian) mirror conjugation. That is, one must both interchange the real system variables by means
of the earlier defined mirror conjugation {A++-A:x, p>, 7}, see (3.9)-(3.10), and take complex
(Hermitian) conjugates. Hence, (or 2"). The inverse formulae of (6.1) are easily found to be
sezee-s), oe fBE429.
azee-m. ae Bere. (62)
One should very clearly realize the difference between (6.1) respectively (6.2) and (3.9) respectively
G.10) (aside, of course, from the factor VA). The complex variables introduced in the Feshbach—
Tikochinsky theory each involve a mixture of both the original and the artificial mirror image oscillator in
terms of their mechanical variables, whereas the above definitions instead involve mixtures in terms of the
canonical variables. In fact, writing (6.1) in terms of the mechanical variables one obtains (consult (3.5))
[p+(-iw)x], [b-@-ie)s},
(P-@+iod}, (63)
Vig Pt ation},
while (6.2) leads to
(-z*),
a
O° Tre
[w-ia)z + (w+ia):
(64)
(o-idet rine], Bea
‘The formulae in the first column of (6.3) and (6.4) are exactly identical” to those discussed earlier by
the author in connection with the real physical damped oscillator (59, 24, 195]. The fundamental
‘commutators of the Bateman-Feshbach-Bopp-Tikochinsky theory, (3.8), are transformed into
* Set or instance in [195 formalae (49) and (4.10), ¢= 20)! and w =i 20)".2 H. Dekker Classical and quantum mechanics ofthe damped harmonic xia
[nz]=A, 5)
‘As the transformation does not involve time explicitly, straightforward substitution of (6.2) into the dual
Hamiltonian (3.6) leads to
HaX+H*, (66)
where
H=(w-ia)zi. 67)
This is precisely Dedene’s Hamiltonian.” which proves our assertion, Recalling that
‘equations are conveniently written as””
the canonical
i=He,
fH
ms =H, =-H es.
Kins 1-H =H (68)
For instance, with , =i (ie. i 2*) and the algebra (6.5) one readily gets
BH
iwz-Az, 69)
i= iwt Az (6.10)
These equations must be supplemented with their complex conjugates, which stem from the other part
of H, ie. %*. Clearly, (6.9) describes the damped oscillator, while (6.10) pertains to the mirror image
system. Using the transformations (6.4) one obtains [59, 195]
dep, (6.11)
B= -2p-0'x, 12)
and
=p, (613)
p=rp-2, (6.14)
which are equivalent to (3.1) and (3.4) respectively, ie. describe the damped oscillator and its mirror
image, as it should.
* There it a mine difernce in sgn, not nA (3 it might sem 3 rt lance) bat nw: Sc for instance Dedene's equation of motion for Note
furter, that i [10] the Bar denotes complex conjagation insead of real mor conjugation,
"inthe symplectic formolation| 107] the egustionsof motion are from the Hamiloiansringivenby the vector Fel x = ~ilw =i AN2 ~ £0)
operating on a function F= esp a8 F = Gr(F) = br2dP* and simian for 21H, Detter, Claicel and quantum mechanic of the damped harmon oxi 2
6.1.2. Quantum mechanical spectrum
Let us briefly consider the quantum mechanics based on the Hamiltonian (6.6)-(6.7) with the algebra
(6.5). Obviously, (6.5) is very similar (apart from a trivial scale factor Vf) to the commutation relations
for the usual oscillator creation and annihilation operators. However, it should be observed that is not
the usual Hermitian conjugate of z, but requires an additional (real) mirror conjugation. Following
Dedene [197]. we shall here call this formal conjugation generalized Hermitian, for short G-Hermitian.”
If we now define a G-Hilbert space with the G-inner product (compare e.g. with (3.34)
wiv’) Vier (6.15)
teins = 8.
the norm conventionally chosen as (yj) = I, then the evaluation of the eigenvalues of the operators
N_= iz/h and N. = =""/h can be carried through in the standard manner (sce e.g. [57, 16164, 300,
313, 314)). In brief, using (6.5) for instance for z and Z, one readily shows that these operators indeed
are the annihilation respectively creation operator on the elements of the G-set {In.)}, for which
Nfn.)= nln). 6.16)
‘That is, one finds
(6.17)
(6.18)
where we have used the normalization of the eigenvectors and é,- = és. = ¢7. because #. = n.. Hence,
the lowest eigenvalue of N. must be zero, and the spectrum is given by n.=0, 1,2,.... Further, as
usual ¢,. =n! In the same way one finds ¢.=(n_+1)"?. A similar analysis for the G-set {n.)}
with N,|n,)= m.|n,) shows that n, = 0, 1, 2,.... It should be noted that these sets of eigensolutions of H
are completely independent of each other. Clearly, the Hamiltonians % and ", defined in (6.6), are defined
on separate G-Hilbert spaces, say G.. Notice, however, that itis not the physical oscillator and its mirror
image that have been separated.
‘The separation of H into ¥ and " deserves a more careful consideration. Let us first allow forthe usual
Weyl symmetrization (see also [370]) for both the N_ and the N, oscillator. Hence,
H = (iz + 2'8'+ he)-iA(éz - 28"), (6.19)
where €=1 for Weyl ordering, and ¢ = 0 for so-called normal ordering (57, 299].** Evidently, the
ordering (if identical for both subsystems) does not show up in the damping part of the Hamiltonian.
ne 4 the pinot GoHeriin, but that swtal p=)" = a as is easly vee by expt evaluation
‘Any conceivable ordering i possibe in principle, Se ep [57 714 H. Dekker, Classical and quantum mechanics ofthe damped hamon oxi
This latter part, on the other hand, obviously allows for a nonzero separation constant, say 6, as follows:
H=H.+H., (6.20)
= w(Ez + ihe) iA(Ez +388), (6.21)
H. = w(2"E" + dhe) +i A(z"F +485). (6.22)
‘The eigenspectra may be given conveniently in a single formula, setting n.
nas
HP = (nt helo tin + $S\WA; 0 =0,1,2.... (6.23)
Leaving aside here the precise observable physical significance of these spectra, it may be noted that the
choice € = 0, § = 2, makes (6.23) an isomorphism of the Feshbach-Tikochinsky formula (3.42). On the
other hand, with the choice «= 6=0 one obtains the Bohr spectrum as discussed by Dedene (197).
Further, the choice reproduces the so-called Bohr-Sommerfeld~Maslow spectrum (see also
{360)), another possiblity discussed in [197]. Finally (but see furtheron), the choice € = 1, 8 = 0 leads to
Bopp’s spectrum (114).
6.13. Quantum fluctuations
‘The dynamics of the total system is described by the Schrédinger equation, that we presently write
formally as
ial =H). (6.24)
If the two subsystems, the dynamics of which is generated by %, are independent (i.e. uncorrelated) at
the initial time, they remain uncorrelated for ever in this complex-calculus-Bateman model. This is
readily shown by setting | )= |+)|-) at any time, leading to
ial-)"
l-), ial+) =
+). (6.25)
To be explicit, the G-Hermitian adjoint equations read
Cle, AGH = IRL (6.26)
From (6.21) and (6.22) itis readily verified that the %. are G-self adjoint, i.e. 3. = %-. Let us consider
‘now the equation of motion for an arbitrary function F_ = F(z, 2). Since usually F-|~)is again a vector
in G_-space, using the G-inner product definition (6.15) together with (6.25) and (6.26) one obtains the
equation of motion in the conventional commutator form. As the analogous conclusion, of course,
applies to an F, = F,(2", 2"), we have
(Fy =~ Fa HD. (62)
More general functions F(z, £2", #") can almost always be written as sums of factorizing terms F.F-.H Dekker. Cassicl and quanaun mechames ofthe danped humonic oxilltor s
‘As an immediate applicati
of (6.27) one obtains the correct equations
ay
w(z)-Alz),
w(Z)+Az), (6.28)
on G., and their complex conjugates independently on G... As to be expected in view of (6.27), notice
that the equations of motion are entirely independent of a particular choice of e and 6. Considering the
model's quantum mecitanical fluctuations for the physical oscillator, however, the consequences of the
above performed separation of the total system H into two noninteracting subsystems %. are more or
less fatal. Namely. since F = z'z factorizes as F = F.F.. one obtains (2"z)™(z2")=(s"Xz) at any
time, oF o.'. = o<'=0 (which implicitly defines the variances in the usual manner). By means of the
transformation formulae (6.3) one easily infers the consequences for the variances in terms of the
proper mechanical variables of the real physical damped oscillator. One finds:
Orolt) + 2Agpe(t) + Po(t) = 0. (6.29)
Evidently, we are in fact not even able to let the system start off at ¢= 0 from the free oscillator ground
state for which oj, = 0 and dy = Mou, = AM/2. Of course, the fundamental reason for the failure of the
formalism is the fact that neither of the separated Hilbert spaces G. contains the physical oscillator as
‘And the separation became feasible in view of the fact that both z and 2 commute with both
as the only nonzero commutators are given in (6.5). Since this algebra is connected with the
Bateman-Feshbach-Tikochinsky commutators (3.8) only by means of the simple complex
canonical transformation (6.1). we are back again at the origin of the problems that have already be
discussed in section 3. Presently it is even more clear that the dual Hamiltonian on its own ean never
describe the correct oscillator quantum mechanics, as it can not even do so if A =
‘A possible obvious improvement of the situation could be obtained assuming that, before turning on
the dissipation at ¢=0, the system has been endowed on 1<0 with the appropriate quantum
correlations by some other means (most likely the correct free oscillator Hamiltonian). In that case the
factorization | ) = |+)|-) is not valid at t= 0, and, switching on the dual Hamiltonian at that time, the
subsystems |) remain correlated as they were, since from then on they are noninteracting again. With
these initial assumptions the separation of the dynamics with #. and X, is in fact not allowed and one
should consider the dynamics of the system as a whole, generated according to (6.24). Actually, this
must be the situation that has been considered intuitively in the discussion of the Feshbach~Tikochinsky
‘model in section 3. From (6.24). implying in fact (3.46), one again obtains (6.28) for the first moments,
while the equations of motion for the variances now become”
jaar 2dose (6.0)
= Liao 2a, 31)
Gee Baer 6.32)
so that
“Weshould be cle tht in the prevent forma rs #* H Dekker, Casal and quantum mechanes ofthe damped harmonic oxi
ye, (6.33)
ull) = on(0)e™, 634)
er)=erQe™. (635)
Using the transformation formulae (6.4) one readily obtains for the position and momentum spread of
the damped oscillator the expressions
Ou = ~(U20) Ove stove. (6.36)
Opp = (I2w)[(w -iAFore +2 (6.37)
Latting the system start at ¢ = 0 from the proper free oscillator ground state, where op(0)= 27ou(0
AD and om =O. amounts to o-.(0)= AACA i e202. 00) = WA(A +i @V20f and a0)
‘ANM2a. Inserting (6.33)-(6.35) with these initial values into (6.36) and (6.37) finally yields
outt)= fer [144 sin 200 +245 sint wt. (638)
ant em [1 Asin 201+ 24ssin* ot] 639)
which are easily seen to be identical to (3.59) and (3.60). Hence, the thus obtained solutions from the
complex calculus for the dual Bateman model are the same as those from the real calculus of section 3.
Clearly, a prerequisite to obtain (3.59)-(3.60) or (6.38)-(6.39) is the preparation of the actual oscillator,
by an expedient other than the dual Hamiltonian, initially in a proper quantum state: the Bateman
Hamiltonian does not in any way have the power to do so. Therefore, we again face the troubles of the
Killing of the vacuum fluctuations.
6.2. Modified Bopp-theory
62.1. Separation of the dual oscillators
‘The above analysis has oncemore shown that the roots of the troubles are at the incorrect
fundamental commutator (3.8). That is, the physical oscillator and its artificial, purely mathematical
mirror adjoint do not commute, whereas the dynamical variables of the physical oscillator on its own do
all commute with each other, even in the limit of vanishing friction. No doubt, rather radical measures
must be taken in order to improve the case. An interesting hint in the proper direction may be found in
Bopp’s largely overlooked 1973-paper [114]. In the sequel we shall present a modified version of Bopp's
treatment,
Bopp’s Hamiltonian, closely related indeed to Bateman’s dual model.” is quite akin to the complex
10 curious to note that Bopp [13] apparently was unaware ofthe work of Bateman [I] and Morse and Festhach (11) in this mater
Incidentally probably due othe ited aceety of [13 Feshbach and Tikochindy [15,6] in thee arn were ansmae of Bopp pape. The
present author's atention wax drawn to [1] and [1S] daring awit to Gorchig/Mnchen in 199 [372] See sho [1,109,297H. Dobler Clascal and quantum mechan ofthe damped harmonic exile
symplectic form (6.6)-(6.7), or alternatively (6.20)-(6.22).” As shown above. however, a separation of
the total Hamiltonian into two commuting parts one of which solely pertains to the physical damped
oscillator will be a highly nontrivial matter. Now, note that in the complex formulation, as in the real
cease in fact, the equations of motion for the damped oscillator and the mirror adjoint system are
actually fully separated. See for instance (6.28). In the complex calculus the dynamics of the physical
system on it own may be profitably written as
fa-iKe, 2
be (6.40)
for which the term improper (incomplete**) Hamilton pair has been coined previously [196]. The only
remnants of the artificial mirror adjoint system in these expressions are Z and its complex (Hermitian)
conjugate, although they do not appear in the resulting equations. The essential notion oncemore is that
the physical oscillator and its mirror image are fundamentally independent in Newtonian mechanics.
Evidently, the physical content of (6.40) remains unaltered if one simply disregards the bars. Ad-
mittedly. this may be considered as a bold leap."** Indeed. its substantiation must arise from the
resulting physics. in particular the ensuing quantum mechanics, to be discussed hereafter,
‘The fundamental commutator (6.5) from the complex dual calculus now leads to
laa’]=1, (41)
where for convenience we have introduced the conventional variables a = :/VWi and a’ = ='/VI. The
pertinent transformations back to the real coordinate and momentum for the damped oscillator are
immediately obtained from the first columns of (6.3) and (6.4) as (59, 24, 195}
1 1 .
a= Pt O-iok], a= Feelp+A tio). (6.42)
and
a * - Fale]
i\Ee-c ‘ p= VE tw -ina to tian’) (6.43)
By means of these formulae it is readily verified that (6.41) transforms into****
[xp]=it (6.44)
* Complete formal equivalence maybe obtained by repaig NV respectively 2'VE, "VB by Boe’: pert. a esgectely
1," Note, however ha hese operators ae ot nny guaranteed 10 behave a ordinary Heri conjugates. Thi ac is ny ase
touched upon in [114 ee frthern in the present text, Parental, Bop wes Wey-ordering ize» 1, at at cn be ea verfed thatthe
parameter ¢ will never appear in observable dynamics eeause the pertinent pat ofthe Hanilonan wit alays only ofer in commutator
xpress his posit ean be deta rom he ott for convenience. The neignbence of the separation ontant 8 fe (621)(622)
lew obvious: but wil be ited ot in due coun Sethe fit owing (867,
The pair of equations (6) may he amndred incomplete i the tense that. though merely deerbing the dyaamice of the damped
itr vile # and 2" at tans (til makes reference to the mio image sytem tro he ourence of #2
ic wa peel his ap tat wasn aly uncovered sch in ef [13
rr igdetlly,(642}-(643) ate fat only special numbers of 2 mich roar gro of tandormations conecting (hl) and (8 See
e9“ Hi Dekker, Cascal and quantum mechenics ofthe damped harmonic ole
Within the present context, this is an important upshot. Namely, it means that henceforth it must be
possible to construct a formulation for the damped oscillator which intrinsically includes the usual
quantum mechanics in the limit of vanishing friction. The price that has to be paid for the correct,
operator algebra is the Hermiticity of the Hamiltonian, together with a somewhat unusual form of the
equations of motion. From (6.40) itis seen at once that the latter become [59]
aa (6.45)
Ghar.
with the generator for the damped oscillator now obviously given by
X= hw-idjata. (6.46)
Clearly, 3€* # . The complex (non-Hermitian) generator (6.46) isin fact precisely Bopp’s Hamiltonian
H’ (apart from the unobservable Weyl ordering constant). For more on non-Hermitian Hamiltonians,
often in connection with the so-called optical model potential, one should consult e.g. [10, 24, 59, 102,
164, 218, 300, 303, 373-386]. It should be noticed that (6.46) indeed reduces to the well-known harmonic
oscillator Hamiltonian if A | 0 [160-164, 300, 303] (see also [190, 192-194]). Finally, for the sake of
completeness, let us explicitly state that for the mirror image oscillator one now separately has
a= -GUA)E 5. (6.47)
H = hw +iada’ (6.48)
which indeed can be considered as the formal (real) mirror conjugates of (6.45)-(6.46). Note that in
effect we have really separated now the physical system from its artificial adjoint.
622. Quantization
In order to investigate the quantum mechanics of the Bopp model for the damped oscillator, one
constructs an ordinary Hilbert space (in lieu of a G-space), wherein the quantum dynamics is given by
the Schrédinger equation
il y= A(w-iaya'al ), (6.49)
its usual Hermitian adjoint given by
HiA( |= C[a(w +i d)ata (650)
Evidently, the eigenvalues of the Hamiltonian become
H,=nhw-id); n=0,1, (651)
Compare this with (6.23). Note, however, the differing physical meanings here and there,
connected with the differing Hilbert spaces, A first to observe from (6.49}-(6.50) is that, in
consequence of the non-Hermiticity of the Hamiltonian, the initial norm of the quantum states will not
be conserved in the course of time. Hence, in order to remain within the framework of the conventionalH Dekker, Clusal and wantin mechanics ofthe damped harmonic oxilar ”
probabilistic interpretation. expectation values will be defined in the general sense
(Y= CIFIMK I). (652)
F being an arbitrary operator. Let us now introduce the pseudo-density operator w as the projection
operator w =| ){ |, the state vectors obeying (6.49)-(6.50). The equation of motion for w becomes (see
esp. [270])
i hv = How — WH (653)
It is interesting, not in the least for comparison with Bopp’s original treatment (114). to write (6.53) in
the number of representation” where (see e.g. (57, 58. 270. 298, 299, 302, 387])
w= [n) Wa (ra, (6.54)
in|wlm) (6.55)
One easily obtains
Wm = 1 (= M)Wam = AC + IM) Harm (6.56)
Notice that, as expected, the trace of the pseudo-density matrix {Wan} decays and, secondly, that
diagonal and off-diagonal elements do not mix as time proceeds. Even stronger. in their evolution the
elements Wan do not interact at all, For the latter reason, (6.56) is almost trivially solved by
Won) Pam) CEMEMHAA IH (65
where we have choosen to set Wnn(0)= pan(0), which for the moment being just defines pam (0). At
arbitrary times ¢2 0, the appropriate density matrix {pan} is defined as
Pam (t) = Wan (t/trace w(t), (6.58)
so that trace p(t) = 1, while
(F)= trace pF =) panFaun (6.59)
as usual. Note, however, that the present theory provides us with w rather than p. In order to obtain
p(t) one must specify particular intial conditions, i.e. Pan(0)= Wam(0). Therefore, in principle, no
‘equation of motion for the proper density operator of the damped oscillator exists within the present
context that does not involve the system's initial state.*
“te aware of the diference betwen the prea and the ust (ee oxo) number states. In pape the later area Kncar combination of
the former, nd vice ver,
7" powily more pec relation Between thi facet andthe cheered non Markovian behaviour ofthe quantum mechani anambon le
(ccctiom 8) remain 38 ye unepined» H. Dekker, Cascal and quanta mechan of the damped harmon oxlaor
It is illustrative (and rather unexpected) that the above description allows for the paradoxical
stationary states, quite similar to those observed in the Sissmann-Hasse-Albrecht model
[129, 253, 254} (see (2.7)-(2.12)) and in Kostin’s theory (198, 199] (see section 11).” Namely, if one sets
Wan (0)= Pam (0) = BamBnny ONE obtains by (6.57) trace w(t)= exp(~2Anot), so that (6.58) leads to
Pam(t) = BnimB nn (6.60)
Evidently, an(t)=0 represents an equation of motion that essentially involves the special pure state
initial condition. Moreover, as such it is not unambiguous as, for instance, the equation i fim
(n= m)pan. with completely arbitrary time scale, would do as well
6.23. The density operator
Having started in fact from a classically damped oscillator (see e.g. (6.11}-(6.12) and (2.13}-(2.14))
fone should, in view of Ehrenfest’s theorem, pay special attention to classical initial conditions.
Stationary quantum states as such do not behave very classical. For instance. (p)= 0 for any n since
(nlaln) = (nla'|n) = 0. The latter formulae immediately indicate the way out, In order to obtain states
for which (p) #0, which in regard of (2.13)-(2.14) is a prerequisite for observing classical dissipation
{108, 109]. one should consider the most classical states of quantum theory (184, 302]. namely the
coherent” states a). By definition, the states |a) have the eigenproperty
ala)= ala), 661)
a being a complex continuous valued number. These eigenstates of the annihilation operator have been
extensively studied (see esp. (57, 298, 299, 301, 302, 371)), notably in relation to coherent optical
phenomena in laser theory (see e.g. (20-22, 35-37, 58, 92, 184, 388)). They form a (overcomplete set
‘of not strictly orthogonal states, properties expressed by
(itm) flay aja = 1 (662)
Karla)| = exp(ala - BP). (6.63)
where d
(6.54), the density operator p can be expressed in the coherent state representation, for example, ay
Re ard Ima and where the integration covers the entire complex a-plane. In analogy with
p= | Palayalda, (664)
where the diagonal, P- or Glauber distribution P(a) is a so-called quasi-probability density.“*** The
*trshoaldhe noted hat au fond the seminfnite ransminsonline (cto som imi estate a one might in princi prepare the exe's
incoming mes syvem in an aPiary pote number sate that (BLA,)=m (ee ef. (él) Of coure, the notin of 8 temperature
becomes moot in that ce,
These minimum uncertainty sats [293,29] ate ako fequenly denoted ax Glauber sates ee €g (32),
+" the fansuon Pith ntinurlly rdcred sat ety of Lol [7], who abo Unease este creat pdsting (ce ao
71), Assach, Pla) isonestoune rtd pom ote anc,
ror the reer hl at get cane wth he mies“ poetlensty” (wen conection wh a: ee ($3 al “yuna orP)
{he ler meant Ho sy tat my Hake on aeatbe wae, UMA wth 4 peer eas deeH. Dekker, Classical and quantum mechanics ofthe damped hamonc exile st
coherent states are a specific linear combination of the number states, namely
ns
moat
la) = expt
') exp(aa”j0) = exp(-f (6.65)
Let us now assume that the damped oscillator is at 1 = 0 prepared in a pure coherent state, say |av).
Hence, corresponding to P(a) = (a ~ ao) 5(a* ~ a3) in (6.64), one has p() = la) (ao). so that using
(6.65)
pion(0) = exp(—larol*) aSas™/Vnim! . (6.66)
Substituting this expression for pam(0) = Wam (0) into (6.57), one easily computes the sum of diagonal
elements of {Wan (1). with the result
trace w(t) = expl-lad(1-e™)] (667)
Inserting (6.67) into (6.58) one obtains”
expl-laul? =i a(n — m)r— An + mt] (6.68)
It should, however, be pointed out that (6.68) as it stands is not the most useful density matrix one
might wish. Namely, by means of the transformations (6.43) it is not diflicult to verify that a pure
damped oscillator coherent state implies a4, = R/2w and oz» = AN?/2w. Since both of these variances are
greater than their free oscillator ground state values, we face the difficulty (which is quite akin to one
earlier noted in the symplectic treatment along with (6.29): but be aware of the differences) that the
system can not even start off with the usual minimum uncertainty.
6.2.4, The master equation
Of course, more general initial conditions than the damped pure coherent state are possible, but they
would spoil the derivation of (6.68). Even worse, they would spoil Ehrenfest’s quantum-classical
correspondence theorem. For instance, it is a matter of somewhat detailed but in principle straightfor-
ward calculations to show that with initial Gaussian conditions, the distribution P(a..) remains a
Gaussian (see also [62)), but leads to mean values, e.g. for (x(0)), that deviate from the correct classical
ones by contributions that do in general not vanish in the limit fr | 0. To be more explicit."* the analysis
leads to the conclusion that these unwanted terms are zero only in three cases. First, if A=0 (for
arbitrary initial conditions). Second, if x(0) = p(0)= 0 (for any A and arbitrary initial variances). Third, i
the system is initially in a pure damped oscillator coherent state (for all A and arbitrary p(0) and x(0).
Hence, on the one hand we see that more general initial states than the coherent ones, if incorporated
in Bopp’s model from the outset, generally violate Ehrenfest’s principle and prohibit the derivation of
"This seem the appropriate pce Gee abi the fasts pressing (6. 1 pint ut ta the imate FEA For poh Le HL 6
independent of any ational separation” constant (8) inthe an: Hermitan part of the Hamiltonian (48) H woul! merely mali Both the
‘numerator andthe denominator in (6. with the same eta fal exponential deaying (or growing fone wishes) factor, shih thes drop xt
**Genealy speaking the abtionl tems ate peopoetional 9 ALe "flO p= eg, wheter chars ep
represents the damp eile coeent te sal, Tutt as the ration Ce) = (pale hy teem amir rte= H. Dekker, Casscal and quantum mechanics of te damped harmonic onl
(6.68). On the other hand, considering more general conditions by averaging in (6.68) over ag preserves
the required quantum-classical correspondence, but in effect questions the validity of (6.49) as a proper
Schrdinger equation for the damped oscillator. The latter point of view will be given more emphasis
farther on (section 7).
Let us then introduce the rather general density matrix
= [ Plao% Fa, (669)
1%, given by (6.68). which is easily shown to satisfy the master equation [16-24. 34-37, 55-58, 62, 82,
114, 195, 196, 200, 270, 271, 274, 289, 332, 333, 340, 389-393]
Bom = =1.0(0 = MY = ACHE Mom + AW GE DVT Dp stmt (6.1)
Remarkably, the result (6.70) does not explicitly depend on the initial conditions. Nevertheless, it does
involve the particular initial states used in its derivation in an implicit way. For instance. this facet is
rather well illustrated noticing that (6.70) does not allow for the pure number steady states (6.60),
contrary to (6.56) on which it is based.” The ground state m= 0 (which is a so-called random phase
coherent state [S7]) is a noteworthy exception. It is also worth noting that Bopp [114] in fact, gave a
somewhat heuristic derivation of the diagonal part of (6.70).7*
Ban =~ Anon + 2A + partners
and solved it subject to the initial condition par(0) = 8,2. Notice that, as in (6.56),
off-diagonal elements do not mix in (6.70) and (6.71). Further, (6.71) is the well-known classical master
equation for radioactive nuclear decay (see e.g. (34] p. 272)
. Quantum fluctuations
From (6.69) itis easy to obtain explicit formulae for the moments The first moments immediately
lead to the correct classical expectation values (x(t)) and (p(1)). For the variances one finds (use (6.59)
eo) reer, (672)
Cas(t) = au, (6.73)
Fal) = Tore + (1
a (6.78)
aed = ou e™ (6.75)
where for instance o4(0) = (ard) ~ (a)? , ete. Using (6.43) one obtains the relations
ag = ~ (R120) O00 ~ (0'4 + Fan’) + 0 (6.76)
This in tne wit the Lown pneitence (within the tae eis) of he P-dntabution fe pate number sates 211,212. 371).
°° Bop's me has the same signicance 38 the pete fun1H Detker, Cleland guna mechanics ofthe damped hammic lene 8
Ope = (hie) i AP Fue + Plors'a + ua!) + (w+ iAP OW’ (6.77)
pe = (Ww [(A +i w)o00— MO a's + Fas) (Aw) ae] (6.78)
where ops is again the Weyl form (see (3.53). Notice the essential difference between (6.76)}-(6.77) and
(6.36}-(6.37). which principally stems from the fact that presently a” and a do not commute. By means
of (6.42) it is further observed that the usual free oscillator ground state initial uncertainty presently
amounts to oa4(0) = A(A ~ i o)2a0, 0 4140) = A(A +i w)/2002 or a's(0) = (2220) ~ $7440) = (A/20)+ 5
Inserting (6.72)-(6.75) with these initial values into (6.76)-(6.78) finally yields”
oll) = Fer™ [144 sin 200 + 2A sint + (Le) (6)
am()= ee wef Asin der + 2ASsin? or] ME Le (680)
ant) = ~e-™ sint a 2 (1 -e™), (681)
Comparison of these results, in particular of (6.79}-(6.80), with (6.38)-(6.39) for the (complex) dual
model, shows the important upshot that has been achieved by imposing the correct quantum mechanical
algebra (6.41)-(6.44): the quantal vacuum obviously has not been turned off by the frictional forces [24].
i.e. Heisenberg’s principle is not violated here.
63. Summary
‘The time-independent Bateman Hamiltonian has been related to the symplectic damped oscillator
Hamiltonian by means of a complex canonical transformation. The symplectic Hamiltonian can be
separated, but the two uncorrelated parts are mixtures of the physical oscillator and its mirror image.
Heisenberg’s principle is obviously violated. Then, following Bopp. the separation of the physical
system and its artificial adjoint has been enforced. The resulting quantum mechanics has the correct
algebra. Unfortunately, the derivation of the density matrix equation (6.70) from the postulated
Schrddinger equation (6.49) involves somewhat unsatisfactory subtleties. As it stands, (6.70) guarantees
the validity of both Ehrenfest’s and Heisenberg’s principle.
7. Complex phase space quantization
7.1. Preliminaries
As noted already in the Historical survey (section 2), each of the theories discussed so far intrinsically
involves the postulate of the existence of a Schridinger equation for the dissipative system. In essence,
four types of dissipative Schrédinger equations have been encountered. First, a nonlinear Schrodinger
Nove that presently af) #0. See (3.59 and [136,16s 1H, Dekker, Casical and quantum mechanic ofthe damped harmon exile
equation (of the Siissmann—Hasse-Allbrecht type:” see section 2). Second, a multidimensional equation
(two dimensional for the Bateman-Feshbach-Tikochinsky dual model, as well as for Dedene’s complex
symplectic formulation: see sections 3 resp. 6; infinite dimensional for the Stevens-Yurke semi-infinite
transmission line model: see section 5). Third, an explicitly time-dependent Hamiltonian model (namely
that of Bateman, Caldirola and Kanai~*: see section 4). And fourth. a Schrddinger equation with a
noteworthy non-Hermitian Hamiltonian (a modified presentation of Bopp’s model: see section 6).
However, itis in fact well-known that the general state of an interacting subsystem will not be a pure
quantum state,"*" but rather a statistical mixture to be described by a density operator [16-25, 50.
55-58, 61, 87-89, 200, 270-287, 298-303, 310-314, 375, 387-393]. For that reason. the significance of
the assumed dissipative Schrédinger equations has been questioned. in particular by Burzlaff°*** [289]
and the author (184. 24. 195].
In the preceding section it has been shown that Bopp’s Schrédinger equation (6.49) has certain
undesirable implications (notably the possible violation of the correspondence principle), whereas the
density matrix equation (6.70) as such is much more satisfying. Of course, in questioning (6.49) one
should not overlook the evident importance of the correct fundamental commutator in Bopp’s
(modified) theory. As should be clear, the latter (ie. (6.44)) is intimately connected with the separation
of the damped oscillator and its mirror image. which are (quantum mechanically uncomfortably)
intertwined in the complex (symplectic) dual model. On the other hand, the symplectic formulation is
intentionally on good terms with the notions of classical and quantal phase spaces (symplectic manifolds
and Hilbert spaces), employing the methods of geometrical quantization (197, 355-369}. Let us therefore
return to Dedene’s complex symplectic calculus for the damped oscillator and introduce the phase space
description from the very beginning (ie. already in the classical formulation) in an explicit manner.
Then, imposing the correct algebra (as in Bopp’s theory) and eliminating the mirror image system from
the description, yields a continuity (or: master) equation in the reduced phase space of the physical
oscillator. Only after these (classical) preparations, the system will be quantized. That is, rather than
seeking a pure state Schrddinger representation (which need not necessarily exist), one allows from the
outset for arbitrary mixed states represented by a density operator. Of course, the latter representation
contains the former in special cases (e.g. if A = 0).
7.2. Reduction of the dual phase space
Consider the Liouville equation for the closed complex dual system of oscillator and mirror image, in
the phase space spanned by 2, Z, #, =i2* and m,=iz*. It may be written as (c.g. [1])°°"""
R,=-ilH.R}, a)
where R is the total phase space density, the Hamiltonian H = 2 + X° is given in (6.6)-(6.7) and where
=i ,] can be identified as classical Poisson brackets.“*°7* More explicitly, (7.1), reads in view of (6.5)
wo other types of nonlinear Schrager equation wil be dncwued farther on: Hase's non-Hermitian made (ction 9) and Kowt's
Schringer-Langvin or Maid drama! equation ction 1).
"One could aha catalogue ere the Stevens orem ine mol ater the Hime dependent anonial warsfmation
thin the preset context we hall defines pure quinom sate 43 sate obeying any sto Schrier equation
iis among to note that Bopp promoted Burra thes [2
In anther mation [7,366-M9] i eeads By = ~FuR, with y= Ex * Exe: othe vector fl specified in the fomote a 8)
Recall that H withthe agcbra (8) 8 quantum mechanically wrung. mo classe. Tetfore, ome vould notice tha the pectimiary
manipulations here are in ela phe space1H. Dekker, Clasical and quantum mechan ofthe damped harmins ave s
{Hy R,-i RH, +c0nj., 72)
where “conj.” denotes complex conjugation. Note that H* = H. As it stands. (7.2) is not convenient for
the intended reduction of phase space. Therefore, we rather cast it into the form of a continuity
equation, Eq. (7.2) is evidently equivalent to”
Ry = (HR), -i(RH,).4+ con}. 3)
Recalling e.g. (6.8). noticing that for the classical Dedene Hamiltonian %* = %, and trivially inter-
‘changing the second term on the r-h.s. of (7.3) with its complex conjugate, one readily casts (7.3) into
the form
Ry = i(H eR). +0 -R).: +00). 4)
which clearly has the structure R, = (R‘+ mirror conj.)+ complex conj.=(R‘?+ complex conj.)+
mirror conj. Recalling (6.40), one again notes that the first term (plus its complex conj.) on the r.h.s. of
(7.4) completely describes the phase space flow for the damped oscillator on its own, whereas the
remaining terms just pertain to the mirror image. Therefore, the elimination of the artificial mirror
system from (7.4) is most easily accomplished by an integration with respect to 2 and 2°, with the
appropriate measure. The latter need not be specified (but see [195}) as it suffices to indicate this
operation by a classical projector S,, so that
R=SR+(1-S)R, (75)
SR=p, (76)
where p represents the reduced phase space density, also called the relevant part of R (see e.g. (16-25]).
However, since the integration is in fact not over a genuine canonical pair, one must redefine the
remaining subspace algebra. As in Bopp’s theory (section 6), one naturally imposes the conventi
algebra on the physical oscillator’s subspace. That is, en passant rescaling the dynamical variables again
as 2/V = a and z*/Vi = a*, one is concerned henceforth with the fundamental commutator (6.41). oF
(6.44), and the transformation formulae (6.42}-(6.43). Eq, (7.4) becomes
jor. on
with
= hw -id)ara, (7.8)
the latter in fact given earlier in (6.46). It should be noted that as yet (7.7) still is a classical, ¢-number
equation so that the ordering of quantities is actually immaterial. However, it will turn out that
considering the quantal analogue of (7.7), one should specify the ordering of %,p and X° even for
Previous ostote% 1H Dekker. Casal an quantum mechamses of he damped harmon oscar
linear systems if #”* X. As is well known. in principle such ambiguities cannot be circumvented in
quantizing classical systems (ie. in adding quantum fluctuations”), although in many cases the ap-
propriate choice can be inferred from intuitive arguments or imposing additional constraints (such as
general covariance; see e.g, [228, 231, 394, 395}). In [195] we have given a somewhat intuitive reasoning
concerning the detailed structure of the quantal version of (7.7). Presently. we shall rather leave the
ordering undecided until we have extracted some more definite consequences from the theory.“* The
final conclusion will be the same as in {195}.
The so-called complex Hamiltonian ¥ featuring in (7.7) generates the classical, deterministic
dynamics according to the equations of motion (6.45), which are obviously akin to the usual canonical
equations, But it should be noted that, as a consequence of (6.45), this complex variable theory differs in
a number of respects essentially from the usual canonical theory. although it naturally reduces to the
latter if #* = H (Le. for the damped oscillator if A | 0). For instance, although # does not explicitly
depend on time it need not be a constant of the motion. It also need not represent the proper
mechanical energy of the system. Further, % is in general not invariant under a complex canonical
transformation.”** Therefore, the theory should rather be called quasi-Hamiltonian. Nevertheless,
does play the role of a kind of complex potential determining the trajectories in complex phase space.
Moreover, it should be noted that the continuity equation in phase space is always more general than
the standard density equation for the incompressible phase space fluid, which expresses Liouvilles
theorem (compare e.g. (7.3) and (7.2)). The latter is contained in the former in the case of closed,
nondissipative Hamiltonian systems only (see esp. (24. 37]). Hence, if one is not starting from a
complete, fundamentally reversible Hamiltonian description of, so to speak, the entire universe (and
‘one is even almost never interested in anything of that sort [35-37, 402)). then the Liouville-continuity
equation’** is a sound starting point. In particular this seems relevant if one is aiming at a pro-
bahilistic description of the system. And, to be clear, we shall here entirely conform to the conventional,
essentially probabilistic interpretation of quantum mechanics. Incidentally, other approaches to the
(quantum) dynamics of open (non-Hamiltonian) systems which are closely related to the above basic
ideas, may be found for instance in [61, 271, 289-291, 403-416). In many cases a (Markovian)
semi-group property (ie. in fact a master equation; see also eg. (73,417]) is introduced as the
fundamental dynamical postulate (see esp. (271], and references contained therein).
This is quite analogs to ang Langevin ie woursest deterministic egetins nthe cai theo of dockatic proces fe. [2
537,56, 59, the observable resale depend for instance onthe choice of eoorinate, See ep. (3. and ah [2.37] Ingen. the abigitis
‘cin be lated up one hs a welded micsncoic phyaal model for the pres
*" Ar the rato srertrning et wy se that fon 77) icon esa ha miter an ting sant e) Wo a ep conNan
se, fr hth «and 5.423) ad the fone preseing (0) wl nlc the eas aang fs the presse Fat
77 Sch a rasbrmation bs Sonsentinaly dine preserving the bave form af the ution atom 4) See a eg Ua the one
dimensional comple ae his mt evi, Ad hone tesstormation hat leave the Pon Brackets (4) vacant rather oem & seu
‘he standard real variable theory ths invariance is deste), Note that (641) i Tat i nol a peaper comple canonical anaormation i the
elasieal theory hat ce [24 HH, HA) The comple character of generally breaks the invariance of the elsal Psu Reaches under the
rari time-dependent (anol) ensformation tht wakes the dynamical problem, OF caune, there it mo fundamental need to forme
Ctaieal mechani terms of Sacks rather han in Siete notation, mo even ned quatre the stem (ee (Tes. p38; of
our, the imponace of he bracket fepteestation i he historical devebpment of comeeative quantum mechinis shu ole dpreiaed
1s) JOO) For some move deta on the above apes of the clues! compleyvatable they. see the seton om the Hint
The momenta i the Mrture ut una, Although wasenhat opp if thre cin he mo mnderaning dhe coats eu
sit mini ae beck comcntonaly Lave equation, mile the dhaanis we itrincls atric oe eg [A The mst
‘uation wl ease of the mos general vty toe Hn nan tec oa hee demote haem Noutaan eto
(ce ange for open te futh mined sts) 8 Naka Zanze exam fe [IN=18 28)1H. Dekker, Casal and quantum mechani ofthe damped harmon exile s
7.3. Quantization
Let us then consider the quantization of the Liouville-continuity equation (7.7), as it stands.” To this
‘end we let the classical dynamical variables become operators in a conventional Hilbert space, The only
nonzero fundamental commutator is given in (6.41). ie. [a.a°]= 1. which fixes the algebra (see for a
particularly clear treatment Louisell’s book [$7]). Since the ordering of . p and 3” is not irrelevant in
quantum mechanics, we introduce a real continuous ordering parameter 0ScS1 and write the
quantum version of (7.7) as
FAC apt Hae
P. +(1-c)pH hat 7.9)
a
By means of the general operator relations (e.g. (57))
laFI= Far. [a.F] (7.10)
F being an arbitrary well-behaved operator function, one readily casts (7.9) into commutator form, with
the result**
fia Fla’. 1-c)[a, Xp + cpla, X}]+ con)... OAD)
First of all, notice that by using the fundamental commutator (6.41) in going from (7.9) to (7.11) one
simply endows the mechanics with the usual algebra. This is a conditio sine qua non for obtaining the
well-known nondissipative results. Further, note that (7.11) by construction guarantees the conservation
of probability, ic. (trace p)' = 0. In (59] it has been proved that the classical # can always be taken real
whenever there is no dissipation, that is if the process is time-reversible (see also (300, 331, 413),
Consider then (7.11) with Hermitian 2, i.e, "= % = H. It is not difficult to show that for Hamilton-
ians of the form (sce e.g. [57, 164, 195, 302])
H=ha(ta'ata’s(ytasty, (7.12)
a(t) and s(t) being arbitrary scalar functions of time, (7.11) reduces to the usual commutator equation
b= —WANH, p). (7.13)
independent of a specific choice for the ordering parameter c. The Hamiltonian (7.12) generates the
‘most general dynamics of a driven linear oscillator. For more general Hamiltonians the above reduction
*Reauiing the ual oxiltorqasotom mechanic inthe Fini A=, the continuity equation a terms of and p lads ta violtion of the
uncertainty principle whenever A# 0. Moreover ia terms ofthe cal variables the ordering arguments of [195] cannot be wed a there is 0
Hamitonian whatever,
“We have choten to mite rather p, in expressions where the expt diferenialreqreentaton ofthe operators snot shown, See aos 1H. Dekker, Clasical and quantum mechanics of he damped harmon olan
usually depends on c or ceases to be valid (in principle for nonlinear systems).” It is quite interesting,
however, to observe that for the rather basic Hamiltonian
H= hag(t)a'a + hag(t)b'b + g(tha'b + g*(t)ab". (7.4)
which describes two interacting oscillators, the reduction to (7.13) is still valid, even if one generalizes,
7.14) straightforwardly to an arbitrary number of oscillators. See also the section on the quantum optics
model
Let us now return to (7.11) with the Hamiltonian (7.8). The Hermitian part of this Hamiltonian
clearly falls into the class (7.12)-(7.14). Inserting (7.8) into (7.11) one obtains
= ~iela'a.p]~A(l— cia’. ap] + {pa'. al) + Act(pa a" + (a. a'p)). sy
Although, of course, any averaged quantity can be calculated directly from (7.15). it is convenient and
instructive to represent it in terms of a quasi-probability density. This can be done in different ways (see
e.g. [20-22, 57, 182-184, 298-302]). Here we choose the diagonal P-distribution, defined earlier in
(6.64), which implies c-number averaging of normally ordered products (a')ta', Following Louisell [57].
one then assumes p to be in antinormally ordered form and by means of (7.10) arranges all terms on the
rhs. of (7.15) into that order, whereupon one may simply replace the operators by their coherent state
eigenvalues (see e.g. (6.61)). This leads to
= (Ati w)aP)« + (A -i@)(a*P) a2 — 2ACP sane s (7.16)
which is a Fokker-Planck equation with a nonpositive diffusion coefficient. The mean values (a(t)) and
(a*(t)) immediately lead back to the correct results in terms of the real dynamical variables x and p,
satisfying Ehrenfest's theorem. The equations of motion for the second moments are easily found from
(7.16) to be
(a?)" = -2(1 +i ea"), 17)
(a"?)" = -2(A ~iw Xa"), 18)
(a*a) = -2A(a*a)—2Ac. (7.19)
Hence, in the long time limit (a)+0, (a*?)+0, while (a*a)——c. Since further (a)->0 and (a*) 0,
‘one obtains for the variances (compare with (6.72)-(6.75)):
(7.20)
Faw) = aul’
(721)
ou)
“Quite generally, Hamiltonians with moce complicated contribution in tems of he cretion and anniistion operatrs can Be considered 3¢
effective Hamiltonians, which ace actualy inferred ftom perturbationl considerations Based on a mote Tandamcaal, clement interaction. Fat
umn, the Later athe asi rctere a ad a" Se fo nance the quntam tice mone [923 SIT AL SRS A983 TS,
[M0, 384, 306-92 and, mutatis matands (lection are fermions). the then of suprcondtvity [¥7, 419-421] Se alo [15] the present section
‘on the quantum optics model and e@ (718)1H. Dekker, Casical and quantum mechs of he damped hamome wile »
By means of (6.76)-(6.77) the variances in terms of the real space variables are then easily calculated,
with the result
(1-2c)h0* Rw. 0.22
pe (*)
On
Evidently, in order for these results to make sense at least ¢ $3, that is0Sc
uncertainty product one obtains
}, Moreover, forming the
pw) ou (#) = (I= 2c)?" 4e*, 023)
If A | 0, this uncertainty product approaches the value (1~2c)"A?/4 2 A7/4. The latter inequality only
hold: or ¢ 50. Hence. in order to fulfil the well-established principles of conservative quantum
mechanics in the limit of vanishing friction, one must conclude that ¢ = 0.
With this value for c, the basic master equation (7.11) reads
fa. #lp|+ pela’ al. (12a)
which precisely is the master equation invented previously in [195]. In that paper. in fact with an eye at
the pseudo-density operator equation (6.53), it was argued that structurally one expects 3 respectively
2H” to stand on the left respectively right hand side of the density operator. This argument immediately
leads to (7.24). See also the footnote preceding (7.9).
74. The master equation
Setting ¢ = 0 in (7.15) gives
i wla’a,p]~A(la’, ap] + [pa", al) (7.25)
This upshot is in fact well-known, notably in quantum optics (the laser well below threshold; see esp.
[19-22, 57, 92)). It is further in line with Lindblad’s general form for the generator of the quantum
dynamical semi-group in the Markovian approximation” [271]. And it also agrees with the results of
Burzlaff (289] and of Huguenin [290].°*
Consulting (6.54}-(6.55), with w replaced by the proper density operator p, one readily writes (7.25)
in the number representation, It yields
Bom = ~i 2( = Mm )Pam — AC + 2 )Pam + 2AV HF INF Dn etm et (7.26)
Comparison with (6.70) immediately shows that (7.26) is identical to the result from the modified
Bopp-theory (see also (290]). Hence, the formulae (6.72)-(6.81) for the dynamical variances can be
carried over without any modification.
"Notice that presenti we have not separately posted his approrimation, Compare eg a0 wth [19,24], Remember that there is evidence
that he Markov approximation i not valid in the quantum domain (ef kaT Ru} See section 5. See ae. [3 27, 2)
* athe tranormationorealcoorinates. note thatthe p > £ + A dflerssomemhat rom our mechanical p~« Further tisworth observing that
Buraa expitly invokes Lind there,” HE. Dekker, Clascal and quantum mechanics ofthe damped harmonic oxillator
Let us now transform back from the complex variables to the physical real ones. Inserting the
transformation (6.42) for a and a” into (7.25) one obtains
UH ol-if (x 001-0 ~ str br oll 32 Ux. ecoll- sh ep. ol +L. oD»
(727)
where (see also [24, 190, 195, 398])
A= ip? + ialp. x]. + 7x? (7.28)
“The master equation (7.27) is comfortably east into the more general form {196]
i
(Hap) if poled y(n Delp. spl] px Dal B.0ll~ js Das.
(729)
where
Ho= Sp? + 30x? (7.30)
represents the free oscillator Hamiltonian, and where the dif
pp Bo 3!)
Pam ay* Om Ia
can be defined by means of the so-called generalized Einstein relations (see eg. (57, 58, 184]). If we
define as usual the drift operators according to
Gy =(D.), (PY =(D,). (7.32)
we infer from (7.29) that
De=p, Dp = -2Ap- "x, (7.33)
which once more confirms the validity of Ehrenfest's theorem. The generalized Einstein relation
defining for instance D,, can now be explicited as (57, 58, 184]
2Dyx = ~(Djx) ~ {pD,) + (px), Os)
which using (7.29) and (7.33) yields
Dpyx = (Dpr + Dap) 3iRA, (7.35)
while Diy = Dj.. Hence,
Duy ~ Dye =ifh. (7.36)Hi, Dekker, Casal and quanti mechanics ofthe damped harmon ol oo
This formula, already mentioned in the Historical survey as (2.22). was reported originally in [24]. where
it played a crucial role in the derivation of the master equation. It represents a typical example of a
quantum mechanical fluctuation-dissipation relation (see €.g. (21, 24, 57-59. 92] and the Introduction).
connecting the (operator) noise (expressed in the diffusion constants) with both the fundamental
‘commutator (expressed in Planck's constant) and the damping (expressed in the friction constant).”
‘The density operator equation (7.29) will considerably gain in clarity if it is represented in terms of
the Wigner-distribution function (24, $7, 195, 277, 278, 299]. In the coordinate representation this
quasi-probability density may be given as
Wo.x)= shy [emma iylole+ yy ay. 3
In two previous papers (24, 195] we have transformed (7.29) into its Weyl-ordered c-number equivalent
directly by means of (7.37), invoking the fundamental eigenvalue relations in the coordinate represen-
tation. Let us presently rather do the calculations in the coherent state representation. Actually, we can
then start from (7.16), with c = 0, for the P-distribution. In this representation. the latter is related to the
‘Weyl-Wigner function by the Gaussian convolution (see e.g. (21, 56, $7, 92, 182-184, 298, 299, 371])
Wea)=2 f exo(-2le~ al) P(A)eB 8)
From this integral relation one easily deduces the transformation
P, = D(dlda, a)P + W, = B(d/aa, a + sa/da*)W, (739)
where @ represents an arbitrary well-behaved differential operator function. By means of (7.39) one
transforms (7.16) into
W, = +iwaW),+(A-iw)a* W) art AW ane (7.40)
Reintroducing now the mechanical variables according to (6.42}-(6.43) by means of
a= Feel -ieks. e Taga tion, at)
it is an elementary exercise to show that (7.40) becomes [195]
fA ha?
- pW, + 07xW, + AW) 5 +3 Wag (7.42)
‘This is a linear Fokker-Planck equation with diffusion coefficients precisely given by (7.31), while the
Ht, fotowing for istance the Introduction, we felate the dilusion coeficiens to Gauuian white noise operators, (7.36) leads 1 (0+
‘.Glei)=21AA AC) tn tat, in sch a form the futuation~