Correlation functions in Heisenberg magnetic chains: Quantum effects at low temperatures

Abstract

A theoretical approach to the one-dimensional isotropic Heisenberg model at low temperatures is presented which uses rotationally invariant combinations of spin operators only and is thus adapted to treat correctly effects resulting from the absence of long-range order in these systems. Analytic expressions for space- and time-dependent spin correlation functions are given for small values of $\frac{T}{J{S}^2}$ and $\frac{1}{S}$. The results include an expression for the spin correlation function in the antiferromagnetic ground state and a discussion of changes in line shape, due to quantum effects, for short-wavelength magnons as observed in neutron scattering experiments.