Generating and probing a two-photon fock state with a single atom in a cavity

Area of Science:

• Quantum Optics
• Atomic Physics
• Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics

Background:

• Generating multi-photon states is crucial for quantum information processing.
• Rydberg atoms offer strong light-matter interactions for quantum control.
• Cavity-enhanced processes are key for efficient photon generation and manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and verify a two-photon Fock state in a single-cavity system.
• To utilize a circular Rydberg atom for controlled photon emission and scattering.
• To explore Ramsey interferometry for probing quantum states via light shifts.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of a two-photon Fock state via a third-order Raman process involving a Rydberg atom.
• Utilizing a cavity with distinct 'source' and 'target' modes for photon manipulation.
• Probing the generated two-photon state using Ramsey interferometry to measure atomic light shifts.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated a two-photon Fock state within the optical cavity.
• Demonstrated the capability of Ramsey interferometry to detect the cavity light shifts induced by the target field.
• Confirmed the successful interaction and manipulation of photons using the Rydberg atom and cavity modes.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully demonstrates a method for generating two-photon Fock states using Rydberg atoms and Raman scattering in a cavity.
• Ramsey interferometry proves effective for probing the quantum state of the cavity field.
• The work lays the foundation for exploring more complex multiphoton processes and novel micromaser designs.