Upper quantum Lyapunov exponent and parametric oscillators

We introduce a definition of upper Lyapunov exponent for quantum systems in the Heisenberg representation, and apply it to parametric quantum oscillators. We provide a simple proof that the upper quantum Lyapunov exponent ranges from zero to a positive value, as the parameters range from the classical system's region of stability to the instability region. It is also proved that in the instability region the parametric quantum oscillator satisfies the discrete quantum Anosov relations defined by Emch, Narnhofer, Sewell, and Thirring. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.