Non-Hermitian quantum geometric tensor and nonlinear electrical response
Phys. Rev. B 113, 115135 – Published 17 March, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/m8y3-tfc3
Abstract
We demonstrate that the non-Hermitian quantum geometric tensor (QGT) governs nonlinear electrical responses in systems with a spectral line gap. The quantum metric, which is the symmetric component of the QGT and takes complex values in non-Hermitian systems, generates an intrinsic nonlinear conductivity independent of the scattering time. In contrast, the full complex-valued QGT induces a distinct conductivity that depends explicitly on the wave-packet width. Using one- and two-dimensional non-Hermitian models, we establish a direct link between nonlinear dynamics and the QGT, thereby connecting quantum state geometry to observable transport phenomena. Crucially, we reveal that the finite wave-packet width fundamentally alters non-Hermitian transport, a mechanism strictly absent in Hermitian systems. This framework elucidates non-Hermitian response theory by revealing how the complex geometry of quantum states, captured by the QGT, and the wave-packet width jointly encode transport in open and synthetic quantum matter.
Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)
Corrections
24 April, 2026
Correction: In Sec. III, last paragraph, second and last sentence, has been changed to .