Inhomogeneous SSH models and the doubling of orthogonal polynomials
Abstract
We analyze Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) models using the doubling method for orthogonal polynomial sequences. This approach yields the analytical spectrum and exact eigenstates of the models. We demonstrate that the standard SSH model is associated with the doubling of Chebyshev polynomials. Extending this technique to the doubling of other finite sequences enables the construction of Hamiltonians for inhomogeneous SSH models which are exactly solvable. We detail the specific cases associated with Krawtchouk and q q -Racah polynomials. This work highlights the utility of polynomial-doubling techniques in obtaining exact solutions for physical models.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Mathematical functions and polynomials
Quantum Mechanics and Non-Hermitian Physics
Algebraic structures and combinatorial models
Publication details
- Journal / source
- SciPost Physics
- Publisher
- Stichting SciPost
- Volume
- 20
- Issue
- 5
- Publication date
- 1 May 2026
- Language
- EN