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Quantum Mpemba Effect Induced by Non-Markovian Exceptional Points
Ze-Zhou Zhang1, Hong-Gang Luo1, Wei Wu1
1Lanzhou University, Key Laboratory of Quantum Theory and Applications of Ministry of Education, Lanzhou Center for Theoretical Physics and Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics of Gansu Province, and School of Physical Science and Technology, Lanzhou 730000, China.
Physical Review Letters
|June 12, 2026
Summary
The quantum Mpemba effect, an accelerated relaxation phenomenon, is now achievable in non-Markovian systems. This study proposes a novel mechanism using non-Markovian exceptional points for quantum systems.
Area of Science:
- Quantum thermodynamics
- Non-equilibrium statistical mechanics
Background:
- The quantum Mpemba effect is an anomalous accelerated relaxation phenomenon.
- Conventional theories rely on the Born-Markovian approximation and Lindblad master equations.
- Exceptional points of the Liouvillian superoperator induce the effect in Markovian regimes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a mechanism for observing the quantum Mpemba effect in non-Markovian systems.
- To extend understanding of quantum relaxation dynamics beyond the Markovian limit.
- To provide a pathway for accelerating energy and information transfer in quantum systems.
Main Methods:
- Developing a mechanism based on non-Markovian exceptional points.
- Verifying the mechanism in a dissipative quantum harmonic oscillator model.
- Utilizing an exactly solvable and experimentally practical model.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a feasible mechanism for the quantum Mpemba effect in non-Markovian processes.
- Showcased the role of non-Markovian exceptional points in accelerated relaxation.
- Validated the findings using a precisely defined quantum harmonic oscillator.
Conclusions:
- The proposed mechanism enables the quantum Mpemba effect in general non-Markovian systems.
- This work offers new insights into non-equilibrium quantum dynamics.
- The findings pave the way for enhanced energy and information transfer in quantum technologies.
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