Numerically efficient unitary evolution for Hamiltonians beyond nearest neighbors
Phys. Rev. B 112, 184419 – Published 13 November, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/jpt3-xjjf
Abstract
Matrix product states (MPSs) and matrix product operators (MPOs) are fundamental tools in the study of quantum many-body systems, particularly in the context of tensor network methods such as time-evolving block decimation (TEBD). However, constructing compact MPO representations for Hamiltonians with interactions beyond nearest neighbors, such as those arising in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) systems or in systems with ring geometry, remains a challenge. In this paper, we propose an approach for the direct construction of compact MPOs tailored specifically for the exponential of spin Hamiltonians. This approach allows for a more efficient time evolution, using TEBD, of spin systems with interactions beyond nearest neighbors, such as long-range spin chains, periodic systems, and more complex cluster models, with interactions involving more than two spins.