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Open Quantum Systems Decoherence

Understanding quantum behaviors of an electron in a uniform magnetic field alternatively

arXiv
Authors: Jin-Ming Wang, Yuan-Zao Gao, Dai-Lin Cun, Jian Jing

Year

2026

Paper ID

68743

Status

Preprint

Abstract Read

~2 min

Abstract Words

164

Citations

N/A

Abstract

Quantum mechanically, an electron moving in a uniform magnetic field forms Landau levels. A curious feature is that for states with a negative angular quantum number, the total probability current vanishes, which appears to contradict the classical picture of cyclotron motion. While a geometric interpretation based on classical orbits exists, alternative interpretations remain of interest. In this paper, we examine the probability current density and identify a critical radius that naturally partitions the plane into an inner clockwise-flow region and an outer counterclockwise-flow region. We show that the vanishing total current results from an exact cancellation between these two regions. Furthermore, by defining a partitioned kinetic angular momentum with respect to the critical radius, we reveal an intrinsic competitive structure: the electron simultaneously carries two opposing rotational components. The negative quantum number manifests in the strength of the inner counter-rotation, while the net kinetic angular momentum remains positive. This bidirectional flow picture also provides a dynamical interpretation of the infinite degeneracy of Landau levels.

Why This Paper Matters

  • This paper contributes to the Open Quantum Systems & Decoherence research area in the Quantum Articles archive.
  • It adds a 2026 reference point for readers tracking recent quantum research.
  • Quantum mechanically, an electron moving in a uniform magnetic field forms Landau levels.

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