Weighted Berry curvature and global geometry of mixed quantum states

Abstract:We examine the geometric interpretation of the quantum geometric tensor proposed in [Phys. Rev. B {\bf 110}, 035404 (2024)] for mixed quantum states, focusing on its imaginary part, which is proportional to a weighted sum of the Berry curvatures of the eigenstates of the density operator. While the real part naturally decomposes into Fisher--Rao and weighted Fubini--Study contributions, we show that the imaginary part does not, in general, coincide with the curvature of a connection on a globally defined U(1) line bundle whose holonomy yields a mixed-state geometric phase. Using a two-level system as an explicit example, we demonstrate that its surface integral depends on the choice of surface bounded by the same closed path, with ambiguities that are not integer multiples of $2\pi$.

Quantum Physics (quant-ph); Other Condensed Matter (cond-mat.other)

arXiv:2609.21355 [quant-ph]

(or arXiv:2609.21355v1 [quant-ph] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2609.21355 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.