Dynamical correlations and quantum phase transition in the quantum Potts model

We present a detailed study of the finite temperature dynamical properties of the quantum Potts model in one dimension.Quasiparticle excitations in this model have internal quantum numbers, and their scattering matrix {\gf deep} in the gapped phases is shown to take a simple {\gf exchange} form in the perturbative regimes. The finite temperature correlation functions in the quantum critical regime are determined using conformal invariance, while {\gf far from the quantum critical point} we compute the decay functions analytically within a semiclassical approach of Sachdev and Damle [K. Damle and S. Sachdev, Phys. Rev. B \textbf{57}, 8307 (1998)]. As a consequence, decay functions exhibit a {\em diffusive character}. {\gf We also provide robust arguments that our semiclassical analysis carries over to very low temperatures even in the vicinity of the quantum phase transition.} Our results are also relevant for quantum rotor models, antiferromagnetic chains, and some spin ladder systems.