Tensor network methods for invariant theory

Abstract

Invariant theory is concerned with functions that do not change under the action of a given group. Here we communicate an approach based on tensor networks to represent polynomial local unitary invariants of quantum states. This graphical approach provides an alternative to the polynomial equations that describe invariants, which often contain a large number of terms with coefficients raised to high powers. This approach also enables one to use known methods from tensor network theory (such as the matrix product state (MPS) factorization) when studying polynomial invariants. As our main example, we consider invariants of MPSs. We generate a family of tensor contractions resulting in a complete set of local unitary invariants that can be used to express the Rényi entropies. We find that the graphical approach to representing invariants can provide structural insight into the invariants being contracted, as well as an alternative, and sometimes much simpler, means to study polynomial invariants of quantum states. In addition, many tensor network methods, such as MPSs, contain excellent tools that can be applied in the study of invariants. © 2013 IOP Publishing Ltd.