Changes of the topological charge of vortices

Abstract

We consider changes of the topological charge of vortices in quantum mechanics by investigating analytical examples where the creation or annihilation of vortices occurs. In classical hydrodynamics of non-viscous fluids the Helmholtz-Kelvin theorem ensures that the velocity field circulation is conserved. We discuss applicability of the theorem in the hydrodynamical formulation of quantum mechanics showing that the assumptions of the theorem may be broken in quantum evolution of the wavefunction leading to a change of the topological charge.

5 pages, 2 figures, version accepted for publication in J. Phys. A

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