A coherent semiclassical transport model for pure-state quantum scattering

Abstract

We present a time-dependent semiclassical transport model for coherent pure-state scattering with quantum barriers. The model is based on a complex-valued Liouville equation, with interface conditions at quantum barriers computed from the steady-state Schrödinger equation. By retaining the phase information at the barrier, this coherent model adequately describes quantum scattering and interference at quantum barriers, with a computational cost comparable to that of classical mechanics. We construct both Eulerian and Lagrangian numerical methods for this model, and validate it using several numerical examples, including multiple quantum barriers. © 2010 International Press.