| Abstract: |
The Baxter-Fendley Z(N) model is a relatively simple N-state non-Hermitian generalization of the well known quantum Ising chain. The energy eigenspectrum of this model, subject to open boundary conditions, is composed of free parafermions, which are a natural generalization of free fermions to the complex plane. The model has some remarkable physical properties, including boundary-dependent bulk behaviour. In this talk, I will trace the brief history of free parafermions, including recent work on the appearance of exceptional points in the eigenspectrum. |
