Monte Carlo method for the Schrödinger equation with an asymmetric periodic potential

A new numerical method is proposed for solving the Cauchy problem for the Schrödinger equation with an asymmetric periodic potential superimposed by a constant electric field. The solution to the Cauchy problem is used to determine the electron’s mean momentum as a function of time, initial conditions, and the applied field. Given an initial state, the mean momentum characterizes the mean current and the conductivity of an asymmetric periodic structure known as the ratchet potential.