Quantum Optics
What we research here in the field of Quantum Optics:
mechanical forces and heat transfer via electromagnetic fluctuations, also known as dispersion, Casimir or vacuum forces
ultracold Bose gases and their finite-temperature coherence properties
small quantum systems that are open, i.e., in contact with environments (see figure)
Two TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidine-1-oxyl) molecules with unpaired electrons are loosely adsorbed on a conducting substrate R. A tip L is scanned and held at a relative voltage V. The tunneling current I passes in parallel via the molecules and causes spin flips. The current fluctuation spectrum I(f) reveals the level structure of the spins.
If you want to read more on the topic, you can start here:
- Rectified Lorentz Force from Thermal Current Fluctuations, C. Henkel, Physics 6 (2024) 568--78
- Cross-over to quasi-condensation: mean-field theories and beyond, C. Henkel, T. Sauer, N. P. Proukakis, J. Phys. B 50 (2017) 114002
- Spin entanglement via scanning tunnelling microscope current, B. Horovitz, C. Henkel, Phys. Rev. B (Lett.) 104 (2021) L081405