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Quantum kinetic energy densities: an operational approach
J G Muga1, D Seidel, G C Hegerfeldt
1Departamento de Química-Física, UPV-EHU, Apartado 644, Bilbao, Spain.
The Journal of Chemical Physics
|June 11, 2005
Summary
We propose a method to measure positive quantum kinetic energy density using photon detection rates from laser-excited atoms. This quantum measurement technique also yields other kinetic energy density versions and relates to quantum arrival times.
Area of Science:
- Quantum mechanics
- Atomic physics
- Quantum measurement
Background:
- The kinetic energy density is a fundamental quantity in quantum mechanics.
- Measuring local kinetic energy density presents theoretical and experimental challenges.
- Existing methods often yield non-positive-definite results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel procedure for measuring a positive quantum kinetic energy density.
- To explore the potential of photon detection rates for quantum measurements.
- To investigate connections between kinetic energy density and quantum arrival time distributions.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the detection rate of photons emitted by laser-excited moving atoms.
- Employing idealized experimental limits to isolate specific quantum properties.
- Analyzing the relationship between photon emission and kinetic energy density.
Main Results:
- A procedure is proposed to measure, in principle, a positive quantum kinetic energy density.
- The experimental setup can also yield other non-positive-definite kinetic energy densities.
- A link is established with quantum arrival time distributions.
Conclusions:
- The proposed method offers a pathway to experimentally probe positive quantum kinetic energy density.
- Photon emission detection provides a versatile tool for quantum measurements.
- The study bridges concepts in kinetic energy density and quantum temporal phenomena.