Open system dynamics approach to polyatomic molecules: Excitons in chromophore complexes

摘要

An introduction to the dissipative quantum dynamics description of molecular system is presented based on the definition of a reduced density operator (p) over cap (t) for the system under consideration. Methods are reviewed that have been used to calculate (p) over cap (t) with emphasis on an approximate equation of motion known as the quantum master equation. The inclusion of external ultrafast fields is particularly accounted for, and a brief description of ferntosecond laser pulse control experiments is given. Different applications are mentioned, concentrating on the description of Frenkel-exciton dynamics in biological chromophore complexes (photosynthetic antennae). Finally, recent achievements guiding exciton transfer by tailored ferntosecond laser pulses are considered. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.