Basis of Quantum Optics
Prof. L.V. Il’ichov
The course (18 two-hour lectures) is aimed to provide the structured and systematic knowledge
of all the main pillars of quantum optics. These are: the notion of quantum electromagnetic field
and its coherence, the Glauber states, the master equation for the photon mode, the simplest
quantum model of laser radiation, the remarkable JC model of atom-field interaction – the
exclusive solvable model of non-relativistic quantum electrodynamics, the spectral and statistical
features of the resonance fluorescence of a two-level atom and the most important properties of
squeezed states with the methods of their creation and observation. Particular emphasis is given
to topics which can create the frame of physical intuition and make complicated situations more
conceivable. Several parallels are made to contrast quantum optical phenomena in comparison
with their counterparts from classical stochastic optics. Some illustrations of the presented
material go beyond the province of mere introductory concepts. For example, the decoherence of
a quantum system due to its interaction with environment is studied in the case of a quantum
photonic mode initially prepared in the so-called `Schrödinger’s cat`-state. Several topics of the
course are expounded in an unconventional style (resonance fluorescence statistics in particular)
which let one to get more rapid and refined result. As a whole, quantum optics is a very exciting
and important subject to learn.
Method of assessment: the carrying out a colloquium and an examination at the winter session
is provided.