Numerical renormalization group for bosonic systems and application to the sub-ohmic spin-boson model

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Ralf Bulla - , Augsburg University (Author)
  • Ning Hua Tong - , Augsburg University (Author)
  • Matthias Vojta - , Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Author)

Abstract

We describe the generalization of Wilson’s numerical renormalization group method to quantum impurity models with a bosonic bath, providing a general nonperturbative approach to bosonic impurity models which can access exponentially small energies and temperatures. As an application, we consider the spin-boson model, describing a two-level system coupled to a bosonic bath with power-law spectral density, [Formula presented]. We find clear evidence for a line of continuous quantum phase transitions for sub-Ohmic bath exponents [Formula presented]; the line terminates in the well-known Kosterlitz-Thouless transition at [Formula presented]. Contact is made with results from perturbative renormalization group, and various other applications are outlined.

Details

Original languageEnglish
JournalPhysical review letters
Volume91
Issue number17
Publication statusPublished - 2003
Peer-reviewedYes
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas