Observing different quantum trajectories in cavity QED

TL;DR

This paper proposes a method to observe a broader class of quantum trajectories in cavity QED systems, enabling the study of engineered thermal baths and entanglement dynamics through atom-cavity interactions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel scheme for monitoring quantum trajectories in cavity QED, expanding the experimental capabilities for studying open quantum systems.

Findings

Allows observation of quantum trajectories conditioned on measurements.

Enables probing of engineered thermal baths for entanglement studies.

Facilitates entanglement protection experiments.

Abstract

The experimental observation of quantum jumps is an example of single open quantum systems that, when monitored, evolve in terms of stochastic trajectories conditioned on measurements results. Here we present a proposal that allows the experimental observation of a much larger class of quantum trajectories in cavity QED systems. In particular, our scheme allows for the monitoring of engineered thermal baths that are crucial for recent proposals for probing entanglement decay and also for entanglement protection. The scheme relies on the interaction of a three-level atom and a cavity mode that interchangeably play the roles of system and probe. If the atom is detected the evolution of the cavity fields follows quantum trajectories and vice-versa.