Classical analogy of a cat state using vortex light

Communications Physics

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[1] 0000000121679639, grid.59053.3a, Key Laboratory of Quantum Information, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, Anhui, China;0000 0004 0369 4060, grid.54549.39, Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Science, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 610054, Chengdu, China;0000 0004 0369 4060, grid.54549.39, School of Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 610054, Chengdu, China;0000000121679639, grid.59053.3a, Key Laboratory of Quantum Information, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, Anhui, China;0000000121679639, grid.59053.3a, Synergetic Innovation Center of Quantum Information & Quantum Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, Anhui, China;

DOI  :  10.1038/s42005-019-0156-2

来源: publisher

【 摘 要 】

Cat states are systems in a superposition of macroscopically distinguishable states; this superposition can be of either classically or quantum distinct states, regardless of the number of particles or modes involved. Here, we constructed an experimental model that simulates an optical cat state by engineering the classical orbital angular momentum of light, referred to here as an analogous cat state (a-CS). In our scheme, the behaviors of the a-CS in position space show many similarities to the quantum version of the optical cat state in phase space, for example, movement, rotation, and interference. Experimentally, the a-CS, which has two spatially localized Gaussian intensity lobes, can be evolved from “kitten” to “cat” by engineering the acquired phase hologram. Additionally, we simulated the “decoherence” of the a-CS influenced by atmospheric turbulence. The a-CS provides a reliable tool for visualizing and studying the behaviors of quantum cat states in phase space.

【 授权许可】

CC BY