# A levitated nanoparticle as a classical two-level atom

## TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how a modulated optical trap can create a classical two-level system using a levitated nanoparticle, providing insights into classical analogues of quantum phenomena.

## Contribution

It introduces a method to emulate a two-level quantum system with a classical nanoparticle through optical modulation, highlighting the classical-quantum analogy.

## Key findings

- Classical equations mimic quantum two-level dynamics.
- Experimental data confirms the parametric coupling.
- Discussion of classical versus quantum limitations.

## Abstract

The center-of-mass motion of a single optically levitated nanoparticle resembles three uncoupled harmonic oscillators. We show how a suitable modulation of the optical trapping potential can give rise to a coupling between two of these oscillators, such that their dynamics are governed by a classical equation of motion that resembles the Schr\"odinger equation for a two-level system. Based on experimental data, we illustrate the dynamics of this parametrically coupled system both in the frequency and in the time domain. We discuss the limitations and differences of the mechanical analogue in comparison to a true quantum mechanical system.