Complex eigenvalues in bound systems: A two-channel example

Abstract

Transition from real to complex eigenvalues is obtained in a two-channel bound quantum system when the method of exterior scaling is applied at a critical rotation angle. The imaginary parts of these complex eigenvalues provide the rates for an irreversible evolution out of the bound states of one channel towards the other one. Exterior scaling suppresses the back effects normally associated with the bound character of the final channel.