R. Loudon, ‘The quantum theory of light’, Oxford University Press.
C.C. Gerry, P.L. Knight, ‘Introductory Quantum Optics’, Cambridge University Press.
Learning Objectives
Achievement of a basic knowledge of the quantum theory of low-energy electromagnetic fields, and of experiments investigating quantum properties of radiation. General understanding of some aspects of modern quantum optics. Ability in employing the main formalisms used in quantum optics calculations. Skill in design and analysis of quantum optics experiments.
Teaching Methods
CFU: 6
Total hours of the course (lectures): 48
Further information
Offic hours
By appointment
Website
http://www.ino.it/home/azavatta/corso/
Type of Assessment
Oral examination
Course program
Treatment of stochastic variables. Brownian motion. Fokker-Planck equation. Langevin equations. Fluctuation-dissipation theorem. Properties of classical light (coherent and chaotic): correlations, moments, power spectrum. Interferometric measurements and statistics. Amplitude and frequency noise spectra and lineshape of laser radiation. Quantization of the electromagnetic field. Quantum coherence and uncertainty relations. Quantum states of light: Fock states, coherent state, squeezed vacuum, bright squeezed state, thermal light. Indicators of non-classical light. Beam splitter and homodyne detection. Hong-Ou-Mandel experiment. Quasi-probability distributions and Wigner function. Separable and entangled states. EPR argument: non-locality and realism. Bell inequality. Applications: quantum cryptography, quantum computing. Non-demolition measurements. Continuous variables and semi-classical approximation. Optical cavity. Production of squeezed radiation. Radiation pressure and pondero-motive effects. Standard quantum limit.