Relativistic effects and rigorous limits for discrete- and continuous-time quantum walks

Abstract

The mathematical relationship between the discrete-time and continuous-time quantum walks and the one-dimensional Dirac equation is explored by studying a class of solutions for each, expressed in terms of the generalized, regular, and modified Bessel functions, respectively. Rigorous limits connecting these solutions are established. In addition, new analytical and numerical results are presented for quantum walks and the Dirac equation, including entanglement, relativistic localization and wave packet spreading, and normal and anomalous Zitterbewegung. © 2007 American Institute of Physics.