Quantum to classical transport transition and a decoherence detection method in driven optical lattices

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Atomic physics
• Condensed matter physics

Background:

• Atomic quantum systems, including atomic clocks and qubits in tweezer arrays, are crucial for both academic research and industrial applications.
• Understanding decoherence is vital for advancing the precision of these quantum systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically study and experimentally demonstrate quantum tunneling of atoms in one-dimensional optical lattices under decoherence.
• To investigate the impact of decoherence on atomic wave packet expansion and resonance spectrum.
• To propose a method for rapidly assessing decoherence levels in such systems.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling of quantum tunneling in optical lattices with decoherence.
• Experimental demonstration using cold atoms in optical lattices.
• Analysis of atomic wave packet evolution under varying decoherence rates (L) and modulation times (t).

Main Results:

• Decoherence suppresses the expansion of atomic wave packets.
• The resonance spectrum is broadened due to decoherence.
• A transition from coherent tunneling to classical diffusion is observed as decoherence rate or modulation time increases.
• A novel detection method for evaluating decoherence is proposed.

Conclusions:

• The study provides insights into the decoherence properties of atomic quantum systems in optical lattices.
• The findings are beneficial for improving the accuracy of precision measurements based on optical lattices.
• The proposed detection method offers a fast way to evaluate decoherence, aiding system optimization.