Physica Scripta
From degenerate solution spaces to unique states: exploring fractional operators’ impact on fractional Schrödinger equation in linear potential
Xueling Duan, Ke Deng
Abstract
Abstract This study systematically investigates the physical significance and advantages of infinite-memory fractional operators in the fractional Schrödinger equation for a linear potential. We derive and compare analytical solutions for both infinite-memory and finite-memory fractional operators, highlighting their distinct mathematical structures and physical implications. For infinite-memory operators, we identify a rich degeneracy in the solution space due to non-local historical dependence, whereas finite-memory operators yield unique solutions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the unique solutions generated by finite-memory operators represent a certain degenerate form of the solutions produced by infinite-memory operators. Additionally, we analyze their convergence and physical admissibility. Our results indicate that the choice of fractional operator significantly influences quantum behavior, which holds important implications for the development and application of fractional quantum mechanics.