Dynamic finite-size scaling after a quench at quantum transitions

A Pelissetto, D Rossini, E Vicari - Physical Review E, 2018 - APS
Physical Review E, 2018APS
We present a general dynamic finite-size scaling theory for the quantum dynamics after an
abrupt quench, at both continuous and first-order quantum transitions. For continuous
transitions, the scaling laws are naturally ruled by the critical exponents and the
renormalization-group dimension of the perturbation at the transition. In the case of first-
order transitions, it is possible to recover a universal scaling behavior, which is controlled by
the size behavior of the energy gap between the lowest-energy levels. We discuss these …
We present a general dynamic finite-size scaling theory for the quantum dynamics after an abrupt quench, at both continuous and first-order quantum transitions. For continuous transitions, the scaling laws are naturally ruled by the critical exponents and the renormalization-group dimension of the perturbation at the transition. In the case of first-order transitions, it is possible to recover a universal scaling behavior, which is controlled by the size behavior of the energy gap between the lowest-energy levels. We discuss these findings in the framework of the paradigmatic quantum Ising ring, and support the dynamic scaling laws by numerical evidence.
American Physical Society