Asymmetric wave functions from tiny perturbations

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how tiny asymmetries in a double well quantum system can induce classical-like behavior, using a simple potential model and a two-state 'toy model' for analysis.

Contribution

It reveals the significant impact of small asymmetries on quantum behavior and provides a simplified two-state model to understand this transition.

Findings

Small asymmetries induce classical behavior in quantum double wells

The system maps onto a two-state toy model for simplified analysis

Quantum behavior becomes classical-like with minimal perturbations

Abstract

The quantum mechanical behavior of a particle in a double well defies our intuition based on classical reasoning. Not surprisingly, an asymmetry in the double well will restore results more consistent with the classical picture. What is surprising, however, is how a very small asymmetry can lead to essentially classical behavior. In this paper we use the simplest version of a double well potential to demonstrate these statements. We also show how this system accurately maps onto a two-state system, which we refer to as a `toy model'.