https://doi.org/10.1140/epjd/e2009-00265-7
Nonlinear quantum dynamics of two BEC modes dispersively coupled by an optical cavity
1
Research Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 49, 1525 Budapest, Hungary
2
Institut für theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstr. 25, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Corresponding author: a nagyd@optics.szfki.kfki.hu
Received:
3
September
2009
Revised:
5
October
2009
Published online:
6
November
2009
We derive a quantum master equation for a single mode excitation of a Bose-Einstein condensate by a high-finesse optical cavity. This system is formally analogous to a broad class of opto-mechanical systems comprising vibrating mirrors and resonator modes coupled by radiation pressure. The presented equation accounts for the dissipative part of the dynamics due to the coupling of a driven, lossy optical mode of a resonator. This allows for exploring the quantum limit of opto-mechanical systems in the presence of dissipation in a classically bistable regime. We find that the measurement-induced back-action noise impedes the observation of quantum tunneling and leads to a non-exponential dephasing of coherent matter wave oscillations.
PACS: 03.75.Kk – Dynamic properties of condensates; collective and hydrodynamic excitations, superfluid flow / 37.10.Vz – Mechanical effects of light on atoms, molecules, and ions
© EDP Sciences, Società Italiana di Fisica, Springer-Verlag, 2009