Unbiased estimators in quantum Monte Carlo methods: Application to liquid ⁴He

A Monte Carlo algorithm for computing quantum-mechanical expectation values of coordinate operators in many-body problems is presented. The algorithm, which relies on the forward walking method, fits naturally in a Green’s function Monte Carlo calculation, i.e., it does not require side walks or a bilinear sampling method. Our method evidences stability regions large enough to accurately sample unbiased pure expectation values. The proposed algorithm yields accurate results when it is applied to test problems such as the hydrogen atom and the hydrogen molecule. An excellent description of several properties of a fully many-body problem such as liquid ⁴He at zero temperature is achieved.