Classical to Quantum Transition of a Driven Nonlinear Nanomechanical Resonator

TL;DR

This paper investigates the transition of a driven nonlinear nanomechanical resonator from classical to quantum behavior by analyzing the Wigner function deviations, providing potential experimental evidence of quantum domain entry.

Contribution

It demonstrates how the quantum Wigner function diverges from classical probability in a nonlinear NEMS, indicating the onset of quantum effects as temperature and mass decrease.

Findings

Wigner function deviates from classical phase space in the quantum regime

Nonlinearity enhances distinguishability between classical and quantum states

Results suggest feasible experimental signatures of quantum behavior in NEMS

Abstract

We seek the first indications that a nanoelectromechanical system (NEMS) is entering the quantum domain as its mass and temperature are decreased. We find them by studying the transition from classical to quantum behavior of a driven nonlinear Duffing resonator. Numerical solutions of the equations of motion, operating in the bistable regime of the resonator, demonstrate that the quantum Wigner function gradually deviates from the corresponding classical phase-space probability density. These clear differences that develop due to nonlinearity can serve as experimental evidence, in the near future, that NEMS resonators are entering the quantum domain.