Spectral analysis of a quantum system with a double line singular interaction (Q2436083)

The authors consider the Schrödinger operator in \(\mathbb R^2\) with a singular potential which is supported on two parallel lines \(\Sigma\). The system can formally be written as \[ -\Delta -\alpha \delta(\cdot - \Sigma) + V \delta(\cdot - \Sigma) \] with \(\alpha\neq 0\) and \(V\) a real valued essentially bounded function supported on \(\Sigma\). In the case \(V=0\), the geometric assumption on \(\Sigma\) allows for a decomposition of the operator in a free Schrödinger operator in direction parallel to the l ines \(\Sigma\) and a transversal part with singular potential supported at two points. It is shown that in this case the spectrum of the operator under consideration consists of at most two negative eigenvalues and of essential spectrum \([\xi_0,\infty)\) where \(\xi_0\) is the lowest eigenvalue. For \(V\neq 0\) the operator can be defined via sesquilinear forms starting from the form generated by the unperturbed operator. A Krein-like formula for the perturbed operator is proved. It is shown that for potentials that vanish at infinity, the essential spectrum coincides with the one of the non-perturbed operator. The existence of negative eigenvalues below the bottom of the essential spectrum is proved given certain conditions on \(V\). Special attention is paid to potentials that exhibit a certain symmetry. In this case, eigenvalues embedded in the essential spectrum can appear. If the symmetry is broken, these eigenvalues are turned into resonances.