Physics – Quantum Physics
Scientific paper
2007-06-07
Physics
Quantum Physics
Article and supplementary information. Version submitted to Nature Physics
Scientific paper
Current research on micro-mechanical resonators strives for quantum-limited detection of the motion of macroscopic objects. Prerequisite to this goal is the observation of measurement backaction consistent with quantum metrology limits. However, thermal noise presently dominates measurements and precludes ground-state preparation of the resonator. Here we establish the collective motion of an ultracold atomic gas confined tightly within a Fabry-Perot optical cavity as a system for investigating the quantum mechanics of macroscopic bodies. The cavity-mode structure selects a single collective vibrational mode that is measured by the cavity's optical properties, actuated by the cavity optical field, and subject to backaction by the quantum force fluctuations of this field. Experimentally, we quantify such fluctuations by measuring the cavity-light-induced heating of the intracavity atomic ensemble. These measurements represent the first observation of backaction on a macroscopic mechanical resonator at the standard quantum limit.
Gupta Subhadeep
Moore Kevin L.
Murch Kater W.
Stamper-Kurn Dan M.
No associations
LandOfFree
Observation of quantum-measurement backaction with an ultracold atomic gas does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Observation of quantum-measurement backaction with an ultracold atomic gas, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Observation of quantum-measurement backaction with an ultracold atomic gas will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-442225