Engineering quantum Mpemba effect by Liouvillian skin effect
Phys. Rev. B 114, 084305 – Published 14 August, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/q3pk-ghhh
Abstract
We propose an approach to engineer the quantum Mpemba effect (QME)—wherein an initial state farther from equilibrium relaxes faster than a closer one—using the Liouvillian skin effect (LSE) in open quantum systems. In an open quantum chain with LSE, we show that the QME can be readily achieved simply by tailoring the spatial profile of the initial state, taking advantage of the distinct relaxation dynamics, algebraic, or exponential decay, exhibited by states localized on the left or right edges. This approach circumvents the need for delicate initial-state design or control parameter fine-tuning. Furthermore, when the initial single-particle correlation matrix contains off-diagonal elements, we reveal a multiple QME characterized by two distinct crossings in the Hilbert–Schmidt distance at different times, caused by distinct relaxation dynamics. Our work uncovers the deep connection between QME and LSE, offers an intuitive physical picture for the QME, and provides a straightforward protocol for initial state preparation, facilitating future experimental realizations.
