Quantum synchronization in a collision model

Abstract

We reveal the emergence of environment-induced spontaneous synchronization between two spin-12 quantum objects in a collision model setting. In particular, we determine the conditions for the dynamical establishment of synchronous evolution between local spin observables of a pair of spins undergoing open-system dynamics in the absence of an external drive. Exploiting the versatility of the collision model framework, we show that the formation of quantum or classical correlations between the principal spin pair is of no significant relevance to the manifestation of spontaneous quantum synchronization between them. Furthermore, we discuss the consequences of thermal effects on the environmental spins for the emergence of quantum synchronization. © 2019 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.