Cooling in the single-photon strong-coupling regime of cavity optomechanics

TL;DR

This paper explores how single-photon strong-coupling alters cooling dynamics in cavity optomechanics, revealing multiple-phonon resonances and non-thermal states beyond standard linear theory.

Contribution

It introduces a non-linear analysis of cooling in the strong-coupling regime, extending the understanding beyond traditional linearized models.

Findings

Multiple-phonon cooling resonances identified

Non-thermal steady states can be achieved

Phonon anti-bunching is possible in this regime

Abstract

In this paper we discuss how red-sideband cooling is modified in the single-photon strong-coupling regime of cavity optomechanics where the radiation pressure of a single photon displaces the mechanical oscillator by more than its zero-point uncertainty. Using Fermi's Golden rule we calculate the transition rates induced by the optical drive without linearizing the optomechanical interaction. In the resolved-sideband limit we find multiple-phonon cooling resonances for strong single-photon coupling that lead to non-thermal steady states including the possibility of phonon anti-bunching. Our study generalizes the standard linear cooling theory.