Quantum mode‐coupling theory for vibrational excitations of glasses

Abstract

We exploit the fact that the mean-field theory for the vibrational anomalies of disordered solids, derived recently by the authors, is equivalent to a quantum mode-coupling theory. For small anharmonicities this theory predicts a continuous transition to a different glassy state if the degree of disorder is increased (“glass-to-glass transition”). It is argued that the vibrational glassy anomalies (boson peak, anomalous temperature dependence of the specific heat) are precursor phenomena of this transition. (© 2003 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)