Abstract

We study the transport properties of classical Hamiltonian models describing the motion of an unconfined particle coupled to vibrational degrees of freedom in thermal equilibrium at zero or positive temperature. We identify and discuss conditions under which, in such systems, the particle has a well-defined diffusion constant and mobility. We will in particular point out some marked differences with the situation where the particle is confined and described with a Caldeira-Leggett model. We will more specifically report on results obtained in a classical version of the Holstein molecular crystal model, speculate on their relevance in the corresponding quantum system and describe a number of open problems.

Department(s)

Physics

Keywords and Phrases

Hamiltonian Models; Thermal Equilibrium; Transport Properties

Document Type

Book - Chapter

Document Version

Final Version

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2007 American Mathematical Society, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2007

Included in

Physics Commons

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