Delving Into Dissipative Quantum Dynamics
Subtitle: From Approximate to Numerically Exact Approaches
By: Hsing-Ta Chen
Publisher: [publisher not identified]
Published: 2016
Place of publication: [New York, N.Y.?]
Language: eng
Description: In this thesis, I explore dissipative quantum dynamics of several prototypical model systems via various approaches, ranging from approximate to numerically exact schemes. In particular, in the realm of the approximate I explore the accuracy of Padé–resummed master equations and the fewest switches surface hopping (FSSH) algorithm for the spin–boson model, and non-crossing approximations (NCA) for the Anderson–Holstein model. Next, I develop new and exact Monte Carlo approaches and test them on the spin–boson model. I propose well–defined criteria for assessing the accuracy of Padé-resummed quantum master equations, which correctly demarcate the regions of parameter space where the Padé approximation is reliable. I continue the investigation of spin–boson dynamics by benchmark comparisons of the semiclassical FSSH algorithm to exact dynamics over a wide range of parameters. Despite small deviations from golden-rule scaling in the Marcus regime, standard surface hopping algorithm is found to be accurate over a large portion of parameter space.

The inclusion of decoherence corrections via the augmented FSSH algorithm improves the accuracy of dynamical behavior compared to exact simulations, but the effects are generally not dramatic for the cases I consider. Next, I introduce new methods for numerically exact real-time simulation based on real-time diagrammatic Quantum Monte Carlo (dQMC) and the inchworm algorithm. These methods optimally recycle Monte Carlo information from earlier times to greatly suppress the dynamical sign problem. In the context of the spin–boson model, I formulate the inchworm expansion in two distinct ways: the first with respect to an expansion in the system–bath coupling and the second as an expansion in the diabatic coupling. In addition, a cumulant version of the inchworm Monte Carlo method is motivated by the latter expansion, which allows for further suppression of the growth of the sign error. I provide a comprehensive comparison of the performance of the inchworm Monte Carlo algorithms to other exact methodologies as well as a discussion of the relative advantages and disadvantages of each.

Finally, I investigate the dynamical interplay between the electron–electron interaction and the electron–phonon coupling within the Anderson–Holstein model via two complementary NCAs: the first is constructed around the weak-coupling limit and the second around the polaron limit. The influence of phonons on spectral and transport properties is explored in equilibrium, for non-equilibrium steady state and for transient dynamics after a quench. I find the two NCAs disagree in nontrivial ways, indicating that more reliable approaches to the problem are needed. The complementary frameworks used here pave the way for numerically exact methods based on inchworm dQMC algorithms capable of treating open systems simultaneously coupled to multiple fermionic and bosonic baths.
Notes: Department: Chemical Physics.

Thesis advisor: David R. Reichman.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Columbia University, 2016.