# Nonexponential quantum decay under environmental decoherence

## TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that quantum decay can deviate from the typical exponential law in open systems, influenced by environmental decoherence, supported by exact models and experimental observations.

## Contribution

It reveals general conditions under which nonexponential quantum decay occurs, expanding understanding beyond traditional exponential decay models.

## Key findings

- Deviations from exponential decay are possible in open quantum systems.
- Exact dynamics under quantum Brownian motion show nonexponential decay.
- Experimental observations align with the theoretical predictions.

## Abstract

An unstable quantum state generally decays following an exponential law, as environmental decoherence is expected to prevent the decay products from recombining to reconstruct the initial state. Here we show the existence of deviations from exponential decay in open quantum systems under very general conditions. Our results are illustrated with the exact dynamics under quantum Brownian motion and suggest an explanation of recent experimental observations.