A new way to classify 2D higher order quantum superintegrable systems
We revise a method by Kalnins, Kress and Miller (2010) for constructing a canonical form for symmetry operators of arbitrary order for the Schrödinger eigenvalue equation $HΨ\equiv (Δ_2 +V)Ψ=EΨ$ on any 2D Riemannian manifold, real or complex, that admits a separation of variables in some orthogonal coordinate system. We apply the method, as an example, to revisit the Tremblay and Winternitz (2010) derivation of the Painlevé VI potential for a 3rd order superintegrable flat space system that separates in polar coordinates and, as new results, we give a listing of the possible potentials on the 2-sphere that separate in spherical coordinates and 2-hyperbolic (two-sheet) potentials separating in horocyclic coordinates. In particular, we show that the Painlevé VI potential also appears for a 3rd order superintegrable system on the 2-sphere that separates in spherical coordinates, as well as a 3rd order superintegrable system on the 2-hyperboloid that separates in spherical coordinates and one that separates in horocyclic coordinates. Our aim is to develop tools for analysis and classification of higher order superintegrable systems on any 2D Riemannian space, not just Euclidean space.