Bethe ansatz solvable multi-chain quantum systems

Abstract

In this article we review recent developments in the one-dimensional Bethe ansatz solvable multi-chain quantum models. The algebraic version of the Bethe ansatz (the quantum inverse scattering method) permits us to construct new families of integrable Hamiltonians using simple generalizations of the well known constructions of the single-chain model. First we consider the easiest example (‘basic’ model) of this class of models: the antiferromagnetic two-chain spin- 1 model with the nearest-neighbour and next-nearest-neighbour spin-frustrating interactions (zigzag chain). We show how the algebra of the quantum inverse scattering method works for this model, and what are the important features of the Hamiltonian (which reveal the topological properties of two dimensions together with the one-dimensional properties). We consider the solution of the Bethe ansatz for the ground state (in particular, commensurate–incommensurate quantum phase transitions present due to competing spin-frustrating interactions are discussed) and construct the thermal Bethe ansatz (in the form of the ‘quantum transfer matrix’) for this model. Then possible generalizations of the basic model are considered: an inclusion of a magnetic anisotropy, higher-spin representations (including the important case of a quantum ferrimagnet), the multi-chain case, internal degrees of freedom of particles at each site, etc. We observe the similarities and differences between this class of models and related exactly solvable models: other groups of multi-chain lattice models, quantum field theory models and magnetic impurity (Kondo-like) models. Finally, the behaviour of non-integrable (less constrained) multi-chain quantum models is discussed.