Coherent states for trapped ions. Applications in quantum optics and precision measurements

TL;DR

This paper studies the evolution of squeezed coherent states in trapped ions using the time-dependent variational principle, aiming to enhance quantum measurements, understand decoherence, and explore quantum-classical transition mechanisms.

Contribution

It introduces a method to analyze squeezed coherent states in trapped ions within Paul and combined traps, linking quantum state engineering with decoherence and quantum-classical transition studies.

Findings

Framework for engineering quantum correlated states for precision measurements

Insights into mechanisms of decoherence in trapped ions

Analysis of quantum-classical transition processes

Abstract

The evolution of squeezed coherent states (CSs) of motion for trapped ions is investigated by applying the time dependent variational principle (TDVP) for the Schr\"{o}dinger equation. The method is applied in case of Paul and combined traps, for which the classical Hamiltonian and equations of motion are derived. Hence, CS provide a natural framework to: (a) engineer quantum correlated states for trapped ions intended for ultraprecise measurements, (b) explore the mechanisms responsible for decoherence, and (c) investigate the quantum-classical transition.