Collective quantum jumps of Rydberg atoms

Authors :: Lee, Tony E.
Häffner, H.
Cross, M. C.
Source :: Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 023602 (2012)
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: We study an open quantum system of atoms with long-range Rydberg interaction, laser driving, and spontaneous emission. Over time, the system occasionally jumps between a state of low Rydberg population and a state of high Rydberg population. The jumps are inherently collective and in fact exist only for a large number of atoms. We explain how entanglement and quantum measurement enable the jumps, which are otherwise classically forbidden.<br />Comment: 4 pages