Symmetries of () non-Hermitian Hamiltonian matrices

Abstract

A non-Abelian group of 16 symmetry operations on (generally) non-Hermitian discrete Hamiltonians represented by matrices is studied. The symmetry operations are described by unitary/antiunitary superoperators that arise when combining three basic generating operations with simple ‘geometric’ interpretations. The corresponding Hamiltonian symmetries occur when the Hamiltonian remains invariant under the superoperator action. These symmetries include PT-symmetry and Hermiticity as particular cases. The interplay between the group of symmetry operations and Hamiltonian symmetries is analyzed systematically by introducing the concepts of equivalent operations and associated symmetries. Spectral properties implied by some of the symmetries are described.