Collective Quantum Jumps of Rydberg Atoms
Abstract
We study an open quantum system of atoms with a long-range Rydberg interaction, laser driving, and spontaneous emission. Over time, the system occasionally jumps between a state of low Rydberg population and a state of high Rydberg population. The jumps are inherently collective, and in fact, exist only for a large number of atoms. We explain how entanglement and quantum measurement enable the jumps, which are otherwise classically forbidden.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review Letters
- Pub Date:
- January 2012
- DOI:
- arXiv:
- arXiv:1109.6506
- Bibcode:
- 2012PhRvL.108b3602L
- Keywords:
-
- 42.50.Lc;
- 03.65.Yz;
- 32.80.Rm;
- 42.65.Pc;
- Quantum fluctuations quantum noise and quantum jumps;
- Decoherence;
- open systems;
- quantum statistical methods;
- Multiphoton ionization and excitation to highly excited states;
- Optical bistability multistability and switching including local field effects;
- Condensed Matter - Quantum Gases;
- Nonlinear Sciences - Pattern Formation and Solitons;
- Quantum Physics
- E-Print:
- 4 pages