Synthetic Dimensions with Magnetic Fields and Local Interactions in Photonic Lattices

TL;DR

This paper proposes a photonic device that integrates synthetic dimensions and magnetic fields with local interactions, using ring cavity arrays to explore novel quantum phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a method to realize synthetic magnetic fields and local interactions in photonic lattices using ring cavities, enabling new experimental studies.

Findings

Synthetic magnetic fields can be generated in photonic lattices.

Local photon-photon interactions are achievable in the synthetic dimension.

Observable effects of magnetic fields and interactions are discussed.

Abstract

We discuss how one can realize a photonic device that combines synthetic dimensions and synthetic magnetic fields with spatially local interactions. Using an array of ring cavities, the angular coordinate around each cavity spans the synthetic dimension. The synthetic magnetic field arises as the intercavity photon hopping is associated with a change of angular momentum. Photon-photon interactions are local in the periodic angular coordinate around each cavity. Experimentally observable consequences of the synthetic magnetic field and of the local interactions are pointed out.