We present a simple and complete variational approach to the one-dimensional quantum Frenkel-Kontorova model. Dirac’s time-dependent variational principle is adopted together with a Hartree-type many-body trial wave function for the atoms. The single-particle state is assumed to have the Jackiw-Kerman form. We obtain an effective classical Hamiltonian for the system, which is simple enough for a complete numerical solution for the static ground state of the model. Numerical results show that our simple approach captures the essence of the quantum effects first observed in quantum Monte Carlo studies.
Relation:
Physical Review E (Statistical Physics, Plasmas, Fluids, and Related Interdisciplinary Topics) 63(1), 16203(5pages)
