Phase space quantum-classical hybrid model

TL;DR

This paper develops a comprehensive semiclassical model that integrates back-reaction and correlation effects, unifying quantum and classical dynamics through phase-space methods, and demonstrating the transfer of nonclassical features.

Contribution

It introduces a hybrid quantum-classical model using phase-space correspondence, including back-reaction and correlation, to better understand light-atom interactions.

Findings

Quantum and classical systems are treated on equal footing.

Nonclassical features transfer to the classical subsystem.

The model unifies quantum and classical variables into a hybrid framework.

Abstract

In this work we provide a complete model of semiclassical theories by including back-reaction and correlation into the picture. We specially aim at the interaction between light and a two-level atom, and we also illustrate it via the coupling of two harmonic oscillators. Quantum and classical systems are treated on the same grounds via the Wigner-Weyl phase-space correspondence of the quantum theory. We show that this model provides a suitable mixture of the quantum and classical degrees of freedom, including the fact that the evolution transfers nonclassical features to the classical subsystem and nonquantum behavior to the quantum subsystem. In that sense, we can no longer distinguish between classical and quantum variables and we need to talk about a hybrid model.