Dicke superradiance as nondestructive probe for the state of atoms in optical lattices

TL;DR

This paper proposes using Dicke superradiance as a nondestructive method to probe the quantum state and dynamics of ultracold atoms in optical lattices, revealing phase differences and transition characteristics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel probing scheme based on superradiant emission to distinguish between different quantum phases in optical lattices and analyze their dynamics.

Findings

Superradiance patterns differ between Mott insulator and superfluid phases.

The scheme can detect adiabatic versus quench transitions.

Similar superradiance observed in strongly interacting regimes.

Abstract

We present a proposal for a probing scheme utilizing Dicke superradiance to obtain information about ultracold atoms in optical lattices. A probe photon is absorbed collectively by an ensemble of lattice atoms generating a Dicke state. The lattice dynamics (e.g., tunneling) affects the coherence properties of that Dicke state and thus alters the superradiant emission characteristics -- which in turn provides insight into the lattice (dynamics). Comparing the Bose-Hubbard and the Fermi-Hubbard model, we find similar superradiance in the strongly interacting Mott insulator regime, but crucial differences in the weakly interacting (superfluid or metallic) phase. Furthermore, we study the possibility to detect whether a quantum phase transition between the two regimes can be considered adiabatic or a quantum quench.