Pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonians and Generalized Involutory Symmetries

Mustapha Maamache, Nour El Houda Absi

BLASI A, G. Scolarici, Luigi Solombrino

Sanjib Meyur, S. Debnath

G. Scolarici, Luigi Solombrino

We consider a class of (possibly nondiagonalizable) pseudo-Hermitian operators with discrete spectrum, and we establish for such a class the equivalence between the pseudo-Hermiticity property and the existence of an antilinear involutory symmetry. Moreover, we prove that this class actually coincides with the one of (possibly nondiagonalizable) weak pseudo-Hermitian operators, and that in no case (unless they are diagonalizable and have a real spectrum) they are Hermitian with respect to a definite inner product. Finally, we show that a typical degeneracy of the real eigenvalues (which reduces to the well-known Kramers degeneracy in the Hermitian case) occurs whenever a fermionic (possibly nondiagonalizable) pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonian admits an antilinear symmetry like the time-reversal operator T. Some consequences and applications are briefly discussed.

O. Cherbal, D. Trifonov, M. Zenad

Ennio Zunino

Overview In the centennial year of the Schrödinger Equation (1926–2026), this work introduces a novel conceptual framework where quantum dynamics emerges from the intrinsic topological properties of a discrete, non-orientable space-time lattice. The core of the model is the "Möbius Pixel": a fundamental 0D/0+1D quantum unit defined on a non-orientable manifold. By employing the formalism of Pseudo-Hermitian Quantum Mechanics, we demonstrate how the antilinear symmetries inherent in surfaces like the Möbius strip and the Klein bottle naturally generate real energy spectra and complex dynamical structures. Key Scientific Contributions Emergent Dynamics: Derivation of a modified Schrödinger equation from a discrete pixel lattice (pi, pi*), featuring emergent Dirac and Majorana-type coupling terms. Topological Foundation: A rigorous link between non-orientable geometry and the Nambu-like doubled representation of quantum states. Pseudo-Hermiticity: Use of the metric operator η and the involutory operator C to ensure spectral stability and positive-definite inner products in the presence of torsional couplings. Unified Vision: A "symphonic" perspective where fundamental interactions and mass are interpreted as rotovibrational resonances and topological inertia of the lattice. Technical Abstract We construct a toy-model framework in which quantum dynamics emerges from the topological structure of non-orientable surfaces. Using a discrete pixel lattice, we derive a pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonian whose continuum limit reproduces a Schrödinger equation with additional Dirac and Majorana-type terms. The reality of the spectrum is guaranteed by the pseudo-Hermiticity condition. In this framework, the observable wavefunction emerges as an energy-resolved sector of a higher-dimensional pseudo-Hermitian system. Technical Focus: Pseudo-Hermitian Stability and Lagrangian Spectrum This framework is centered on the formalization of a stable, real-valued spectrum for non-orientable pixel dynamics. The core mathematical challenge addressed is the preservation of a positive-definite inner product in the presence of torsional (antilinear) terms. 1. The Metric Operator η and Involutory C To ensure spectral stability, we define the Hamiltonian H as pseudo-Hermitian with respect to the metric operator η: H† = η H η⁻¹ We introduce a linear, involutory operator C (C² = I) that commutes with the Hamiltonian [H, C] = 0. This operator C is essential for constructing a strictly positive-definite inner product: ⟨ψ | φ⟩_C = ⟨ψ | η C | φ⟩ This construction guarantees that the "Möbius Pixel" states reside in a physical Hilbert space with a consistent probabilistic interpretation, neutralizing the instabilities typically associated with non-Hermitian torsional couplings. 2. Lagrangian Extension and Hamiltonian H The internal dynamics is derived from a 0+1D Lagrangian density accounting for vibrational (n) and topological (k) degrees of freedom. The extension to the full Hamiltonian H includes: Mass-topological Term: m_top c² Internal Excitation Spectrum: Defined by the functional f(n,k), representing the energy levels of the discrete pixel. Torsional Coupling: An antilinear term λ₄ Φ T inducing mixing between the pi and pi* sectors. The resulting spectrum E_n,k remains real under the stability condition: (m_top c² + λ₃ f(n,k))² ≥ (λ₄ Φ_k)² This inequality provides a natural threshold for the lattice, where Planck-scale incompressibility acts as a physical cut-off. Call for Formalization and Collaboration I have established the foundational structure for η and C within the context of the C-formalization. I am looking for collaborators (Theoretical Physicists, Mathematicians) to: Generalize the C operator for an N-pixel lattice interaction. Refine the Lagrangian to include full Lorentz invariance in the continuum limit. Analyze Torsional Modes as symmetry-protected sectors in a 4D pseudo-Hermitian field theory.