A remark on the notion of independence of quantum integrals of motion in the thermodynamic limit

Abstract

Studies of integrable quantum many-body systems have a long history with an impressive record of success. However, surprisingly enough, an unambiguous definition of quantum integrability remains a matter of an ongoing debate. We contribute to this debate by dwelling upon an important aspect of quantum integrability -- the notion of independence of quantum integrals of motion (QIMs). We point out that a widely accepted definition of functional independence of QIMs is flawed, and suggest a new definition. Our study is motivated by the PXP model -- a model of $N$ spins $1/2$ possessing an extensive number of binary QIMs. The number of QIMs which are independent according to the common definition turns out to be equal to the number of spins, $N$. A common wisdom would then suggest that the system is completely integrable, which is not the case. We discuss the origin of this conundrum and demonstrate how it is resolved when a new definition of independence of QIMs is employed.