Superfluid rings as quantum pendulums

TL;DR

This paper proposes an experimental setup using ultracold atoms in a tilted ring potential to realize a non-dispersive quantum pendulum, demonstrating classical stabilization via quantum phase imprinting and discussing potential gravimeter applications.

Contribution

It introduces a novel experimental design for a quantum pendulum using ultracold atoms, highlighting quantum stabilization mechanisms and potential sensing applications.

Findings

Classical and quantum domains can be controlled by tuned interactions.

Quantum phase imprinting stabilizes classically unstable states.

Potential application as a highly sensitive gravimeter.

Abstract

A feasible experimental proposal to realize a non-dispersive quantum pendulum is presented. The proposed setup consists of an ultracold atomic cloud, featuring attractive interatomic interactions, loaded into a tilted ring potential. The classical and quantum domains are switched on by tuned interactions, and the classical dynamical stabilization of unstable states, i.e. {\it a la} Kapitza, is shown to be driven by quantum phase imprinting. The potential use of this system as a gravimeter is discussed.