Breakdown of Time-Dependent Mean-Field Theory for a One-Dimensional Condensate of Impenetrable Bosons

Abstract

We show that the time-dependent nonlinear Schrodinger equation of mean-field theory has limited utility for a one-dimensional condensate of impenetrable bosons. Mean-field theory with its associated order parameter predicts interference between split condensates that are recombined, whereas an exact many-body treatment shows minimal interference.