Signatures of quantum stability in a classically chaotic system

Area of Science:

• Quantum dynamics
• Atomic physics
• Quantum chaos

Background:

• The quantum delta-kicked accelerator is a model system for studying quantum chaos.
• Understanding quantum accelerator modes is crucial for quantum control and information processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally and numerically investigate the quantum accelerator mode dynamics in an atom optical setup.
• To demonstrate coherent formation of quantum accelerator modes.
• To establish a connection between quantum evolution fidelity and pseudoclassical map structures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing an atom optical realization of the quantum delta-kicked accelerator.
• Performing Ramsey-type experiments to observe interference patterns.
• Conducting numerical simulations to complement experimental findings.
• Analyzing the phase space structure of a pseudoclassical map.

Main Results:

• Experimental observation of interference, confirming coherent formation of quantum accelerator modes.
• Demonstration of quantum accelerator modes in a chaotic classical system.
• Establishment of a link between the evolution's fidelity and the pseudoclassical map's phase space structure.
• Successful accounting for observed interference visibilities.

Conclusions:

• Quantum accelerator modes are formed coherently in the investigated atom optical system.
• The fidelity of quantum evolution is directly related to the underlying pseudoclassical map structure.
• The study provides insights into the interplay between quantum mechanics and classical chaos in accelerator modes.