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arXiv:2106.11965 · American Journal of Physics

Williamson theorem in classical, quantum, and statistical physics

F. Nicacio

Published Nov 22, 2021• 15 citations
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

In this work, we present (and encourage the use of) the Williamson theorem and its consequences in several contexts in physics. We demonstrate this theorem using only basic concepts of linear algebra and symplectic matrices. As an immediate application in the context of small oscillations, we show that applying this theorem reveals the normal-mode coordinates and frequencies of the system in the Hamiltonian scenario. A modest introduction of the symplectic formalism in quantum mechanics is presented, using the theorem to study quantum normal modes and canonical distributions of thermodynamically stable systems described by quadratic Hamiltonians. As a last example, a more advanced topic concerning uncertainty relations is developed to show once more its utility in a distinct and modern perspective.

DOI
10.1119/10.0005944

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In this work, we present (and encourage the use of) the Williamson theorem and its consequences in several contexts in physics. We demonstrate this theorem using only basic concepts of linear algebra and symplectic matrices. As an immediate application in the context of small oscillations, we show that applying this theorem reveals the normal-mode coordinates and frequencies of the system in the Hamiltonian scenario. A modest introduction of the symplectic formalism in quantum mechanics is presented, using the theorem to study quantum normal modes and canonical distributions of thermodynamically stable systems described by quadratic Hamiltonians. As a last example, a more advanced topic concerning uncertainty relations is developed to show once more its utility in a distinct and modern perspective.
The symplectic eigenvalues play a significant role in finite mode quantum information theory, and Williamson normal form proves to be a valuable tool in this area. Understanding the symplectic spectrum of a Gaussian Covariance Operator is a crucial task. Recently, an infinite-dimensional analogue of Williamson Normal form was discovered, which has been instrumental in studying infinite mode Gaussian quantum states. However, most existing results pertain to finite-dimensional operators, leaving a dearth of literature in the infinite-dimensional context. The focus of this article is on employing approximation techniques to estimate the symplectic spectrum of certain infinite-dimensional operators. These techniques are well-suited for a particular class of operators, including specific types of infinite mode Gaussian Covariance Operators. Our approach involves computing the Williamson Normal form and deriving bounds for the symplectic spectrum of these operators. As a practical application, we explicitly compute the symplectic spectrum of Gaussian Covariance Operators. Through this research, we aim to contribute to the understanding of symplectic eigenvalues in the context of infinite-dimensional operators, opening new avenues for exploration in quantum information theory and related fields.
The symplectic eigenvalues play a significant role in the finite-mode quantum information theory, and Williamson’s normal form proves to be a valuable tool in this area. Understanding the symplectic spectrum of a Gaussian Covariance Operator is a crucial task. Recently, in 2018, an infinite-dimensional analogue of Williamson’s Normal form was discovered, which has been instrumental in studying the infinite-mode Gaussian quantum states. However, most existing results pertain to finite-dimensional operators, leaving a dearth of literature in the infinite-dimensional context. The focus of this article is on employing approximation techniques to estimate the symplectic spectrum of certain infinite-dimensional operators. These techniques are well-suited for a particular class of operators, including specific types of infinite-mode Gaussian Covariance Operators. Our approach involves computing the Williamson’s Normal form and deriving bounds for the symplectic spectrum of these operators. As a practical application, we explicitly compute the symplectic spectrum of Gaussian Covariance Operators. Through this research, we aim to contribute to the understanding of symplectic eigenvalues in the context of infinite-dimensional operators, opening new avenues for exploration in quantum information theory and related fields.
This chapter begins by developing the relation between the quantum theory and the linear algebra. It discusses the most fundamental postulates of the theory and provides a phenomenological development of the Schrödinger wave equation (SWE) although the results might be gleaned from the classical Lagrangian and Hamiltonian with the Poisson bracket relations. Afterward some simple examples for the infinitely and finitely deep wells help clarify the basic postulates. The simple harmonic oscillator has perhaps the most sweeping implications and applications for the quantum theory. For this reason, we present the most applicable formalism for the Harmonic oscillator that uses the operator approach rather than the classical method of partial differential equations. The angular momentum and spin are presented for the study of the atom and for applications for nanodevices, and quantum computing. Next the representation formalism clarifies the distinction between the dynamical operators and the wave functions and their interrelations. The chapter discusses both timeindependent and time-dependent perturbation theories. The density operator combines the quantum theory with the classical theory for finding the behavior of a system. The density operator represents one of the basic concepts in the quantum theory. The remainder of the chapter introduces the more advanced material meant to introduce the quantum field theory starting with the second quantization and the propagator.
The rise of quantum technology has put control at the centre of advancements in quantum mechanics. The union of quantum mechanics with mathematical control theory is a meeting that is leading to a much deeper insight into our interaction with the bizarre properties of quantum theory. Often, the study of discrete variable systems is the focus for making this union. Here, we look at how control theory may be applied to the continuous variable theory of Gaussian states. Special emphasis is given to control of the covariance matrix of these states, as it is here that we find the entanglement and entropic properties of the state. We begin by exploring some initial results for the geometry of Gaussian states, revealing different manifold structures dependent on symplectic eigenvalue degeneracy. In this geometrical setting a proposal for an extension of Williamson's theorem is put forward and partially completed. It is often interesting to look at restricted sets of Hamiltonians and ask what transformations can be performed with concatenations of their corresponding unitaries. Controllable systems are those for which the entire group of interest is possible to enact. We explore an uncontrollable system in a single mode and give a physical analysis as to why it behaves this way. This leads to ideas to move forwards for a necessary and sufficient condition for control on the symplectic group that has been conjectured since 1972. Later, we transfer to the question of open dynamics. We focus on a particular and ubiquitous channel known as 'lossy' or 'the attenuation channel'. An equation is derived describing the evolution for the symplectic invariants of a Gaussian state undergoing such dynamics. The equation of the former chapter is used to explore the evolution of entropy and entanglement. Optimal protocols are developed for the manipulation of these properties undergoing lossy dynamics.
This original and innovative textbook takes the unique perspective of introducing and solving problems in quantum mechanics using linear algebra methods, to equip readers with a deeper and more practical understanding of this fundamental pillar of contemporary physics. Extensive motivation for the properties of quantum mechanics, Hilbert space, and the Schrödinger equation is provided through analysis of the derivative, while standard topics like the harmonic oscillator, rotations, and the hydrogen atom are covered from within the context of operator methods. Advanced topics forming the basis of modern physics research are also included, such as the density matrix, entropy, and measures of entanglement. Written for an undergraduate audience, this book offers a unique and mathematically self-contained treatment of this hugely important topic. Students are guided gently through the text by the author's engaging writing style, with an extensive glossary provided for reference and numerous homework problems to expand and develop key concepts. Online resources for instructors include a fully worked solutions manual and lecture slides.