Geometric phase of a parallel transport over the surface of a sphere

In summary, The conversation discusses the calculation of the geometric phase (Berry phase) of a parallel transporting vector over the surface of a sphere. It introduces the vector ψ and a local basis n, and explains how α can be used to determine the geometric phase. The question is raised about the difference between n and ψ and why Imψ*・dψ=0 while Imn*・dn≠0. The response states that the phase is local and can be expressed as ##\alpha=\alpha(\mathbf{t})##, and that one should be able to compute that ## \mathrm{Im}\mathbf{n}^* \cdot d\mathbf{n} = d\alpha##.
  • #1
lld212
1
0
I have this question on the calculation of the geometric phase (Berry phase) of a parallel transporting vector over the surface of a sphere, illustrated by Prof. Berry for example in the attached file starting on page 2.
The vector performing parallel transport is defined as ψ=(e+ie')/√2,
satisfying the parallel transport law, Imψ*=0.
Then another local basis was defined, n(r)=(u(r)+iv(r))/√2,
and ψ=n(r)exp(-iα).
Together the geometric phase (or so called anholonomy) is given as
α(C)=Im∫Cn*dn.

I can't see the difference between n and ψ here, except for a phase factor α. I think both of them performing the same parallel transport with α being constant. But why
Imψ*=0 while Imn*dn≠0, even with the latter being a gauge of the geometric phase?

Thanks in advance.
 

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  • 1988-M.V.Berry-The Quantum Phase-Five years after.pdf
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  • #2
The phase is local, expressed as ##\alpha=\alpha(\mathbf{t})##, where ##t## is a parameter on the path. You should be able to compute that ## \mathrm{Im}\mathbf{n}^* \cdot d\mathbf{n} = d\alpha##.
 

1. What is the geometric phase of a parallel transport over the surface of a sphere?

The geometric phase of a parallel transport over the surface of a sphere is the phase shift that occurs when a vector is transported along a closed path on the surface of a sphere, returning to its original position but with its direction potentially changed. This phenomenon is a result of the non-commutativity of parallel transport on curved surfaces.

2. How is the geometric phase calculated for a parallel transport over the surface of a sphere?

The geometric phase can be calculated using the Berry phase formula, which takes into account the curvature of the surface and the path of the transported vector. It is represented by an integral over the closed path on the surface of the sphere.

3. What is the significance of the geometric phase in physics?

The geometric phase has important implications in quantum mechanics and other areas of physics. It is a manifestation of the geometric nature of physical systems and can lead to observable effects, such as interference patterns in quantum systems.

4. Can the geometric phase be observed experimentally?

Yes, the geometric phase has been observed in various experiments, including in the rotation of polarized light, the behavior of quantum particles, and the motion of Bloch electrons in crystals.

5. How does the geometric phase differ from the dynamical phase?

The geometric phase is a result of the geometry of the system, while the dynamical phase is a result of the evolution of the system over time. The geometric phase is independent of the speed at which the vector is transported, while the dynamical phase is dependent on the time taken to transport the vector. Additionally, the geometric phase can lead to observable effects, while the dynamical phase is often canceled out in physical systems.

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