Theory of the Loschmidt echo and dynamical quantum phase transitions in disordered Fermi systems

TL;DR

This paper develops a theory for the Loschmidt echo and dynamical phase transitions in disordered Fermi systems, revealing unique behaviors such as zeros forming a 2D manifold and a transition in eigenvalue distribution, distinct from Anderson localization.

Contribution

It introduces a novel finite-size scaling theory for dynamical phase transitions in disordered Fermi systems and uncovers their qualitative differences from non-disordered systems.

Findings

Zeros of the Loschmidt echo form a 2D manifold in the thermodynamic limit.

Dynamical phase transition is linked to eigenvalue distribution changes.

Transition is decoupled from Anderson localization.

Abstract

In this work we develop the theory of the Loschmidt echo and dynamical phase transitions in non-interacting strongly disordered Fermi systems after a quench. In finite systems the Loschmidt echo displays zeros in the complex time plane that depend on the random potential realization. Remarkably, the zeros coalesce to form a 2D manifold in the thermodynamic limit, atypical for 1D systems, crossing the real axis at a sharply-defined critical time. We show that this dynamical phase transition can be understood as a transition in the distribution function of the smallest eigenvalue of the Loschmidt matrix, and develop a finite-size scaling theory. Contrary to expectations, the notion of dynamical phase transitions in disordered systems becomes decoupled from the equilibrium Anderson localization transition. Our results highlight the striking qualitative differences of quench dynamics in disordered and non-disordered many-fermion systems.