Physical Review A
Geometry of density matrices. V. Eigenstates
John E. Harriman
Abstract
Constraints placed on a reduced density matrix or density by the requirement that it correspond to an eigenstate or ensemble of eigenstates of some operator are investigated. Linear conditions, including expectation value, commutator, hypervirial, and hierarchy equation conditions, may lead to linear constraints on lower-order reduced density matrices and densities or leave them unconstrained. A zero-dispersion condition for a $p$-electron operator defines a parabolic trough on which reduced density matrices of order $2p$ must lie, but usually does not restrict lower-order reduced density matrices or the density. Some properties of symmetrized and antisymmetrized matrix products, related to their reduction behavior, are also investigated.