AKLT model

Abstract: We study a construction that yields a class of translation invariant states on quantum spin chains, characterized by the property that the correlations across any bond can be modeled on a finite-dimensional vector space. These states can be considered as generalized valence bond states, and they are dense in the set of all translation invariant states. We develop a complete theory of the ergodic decomposition of such states, including the decomposition into periodic “Neel ordered” states. The ergodic components have exponential decay of correlations. All states considered can be obtained as “local functions” of states of a special kind, so-called “purely generated states,” which are shown to be ground states for suitably chosen finite range VBS interactions. We show that all these generalized VBS models have a spectral gap. Our theory does not require symmetry of the state with respect to a local gauge group. In particular we illustrate our results with a one-parameter family of examples which are not isotropic except for one special case. This isotropic model coincides with the one-dimensional antiferromagnet, recently studied by Affleck, Kennedy, Lieb, and Tasaki.

Abstract: Haldane predicted that the isotropic quantum Heisenberg spin chain is in a “massive” phase if the spin is integral. The first rigorous example of an isotropic model in such a phase is presented. The Hamiltonian has an exactSO(3) symmetry and is translationally invariant, but we prove the model has a unique ground state, a gap in the spectrum of the Hamiltonian immediately above the ground state and exponential decay of the correlation functions in the ground state. Models in two and higher dimension which are expected to have the same properties are also presented. For these models we construct an exact ground state, and for some of them we prove that the two-point function decays exponentially in this ground state. In all these models exact ground states are constructed by using valence bonds.

Abstract: We show that disordered flat phases in crystal surfaces are equivalent to valence-bond-type phases in integer and half-integer spin quantum chains. In the quantum spin representation the disordered flat phase represents a fluid-type phase with long-range antiferromagnetic spin order. This order is stabilized dynamically by the hopping of the particles and short-range spin-exchange interactions. The mass of N\'eel solitons is finite. Numerical finite-size-scaling results confirm this. We identify the order parameter of the valence-bond phase. The Haldane conjecture suggests a fundamental difference between half-integer and integer antiferromagnetic Heisenberg spin chains. We find that disordered flat phases are realized in both cases, have exactly the same type of long-range antiferromagnetic spin order, and are stabilized by exactly the same mechanism. They differ only in the mathematical formulation of broken symmetry in the spin representation. We suggest experimental methods of observing disordered flat phases in crystal surfaces.