Dynamical evolution of imaginarity resources in non-Markovian environments

Abstract The pivotal role of complex numbers in quantum mechanics underpins the resource theory of imaginarity. We investigate imaginarity dynamics in a single-qubit open system coupled to a non-Markovian environment. Crucially, cavity field detuning emerges as the dominant regulator, driving continuous conversion between the real and imaginary components of coherence. Nonzero detuning induces characteristic non-periodic oscillations of imaginarity between zero and maximal values, preventing complete decoherence at specific times. We establish that imaginarity resources stem from both intrinsic system evolution and environmental feedback. Significantly, detuning-driven imaginarity generation persists even in Markovian regimes, demonstrating its origin beyond environmental memory effects. These insights offer new perspectives for understanding and harnessing quantum coherence.