Research investigation directed toward extending the useful range of the electromagnetic spectrum
Abstract
We have been studying the characteristics of light generated by distinctly non-Poisson processes. We are particularly interested in sub-Poisson light (light whose fluctuations are lower than those of lasers). The use of such quiet light can be beneficial, e.g., it can increase the distance between repeaters in a fiber-optic communications system. As an example of a mechanism for producing such light, we have begun studying a Franck-Hertz apparatus excited by a space-charge-limited electron beam. We have carried out extensive theoretical calculations of the properties of such a source of light and demonstrated that under suitable conditions it can indeed lead to antibunched and sub-Poisson photon emissions. We have also proved a quantum analog of the Burgess variance theorem. This confirmed that the sub-Poisson nature of a light beam is conserved in the presence of absorptive media and additive (Poisson) background light. Thus the sub-Poisson light can be used in a real detection system once it is generated.
- Publication:
-
Columbia Univ. Annual Report
- Pub Date:
- May 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984cuny.rept.....F
- Keywords:
-
- Electromagnetic Spectra;
- Light Emission;
- Light Sources;
- Electron Beams;
- Energy Transfer;
- Excitation;
- Ion Scattering;
- Laser Outputs;
- Light (Visible Radiation);
- Photochemical Reactions;
- Polyatomic Molecules;
- Spectroscopy;
- Communications and Radar