A classical model for perfect transfer and fractional revival based on q-Racah polynomials

Abstract

It is shown how choices based on the q-Racah polynomials for the masses and spring constants along a chain give new systems that exactly allow dispersionless end-to-end transmission of a pulse as well as periodic splitting of the initial momentum between the first and last mass. This “Newton's cradle” provides a classical analog of quantum spin devices that exhibit perfect state transfer and fractional revival.