Crimin, Frances (2018) Quantum theory of the Penning trap: an exploration of the low temperature regime. Doctoral thesis (PhD), University of Sussex.

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Abstract

The objective of this thesis is to develop the quantum theory of the motional degrees of freedom of a charged particle in a Penning trap. The theory is treated within the formalism of quantum optics, and explores the use of dressed-atom methods by exploiting the threefold SU(N) algebraic structure of the problem. The quantum form of the experimental techniques of sideband coupling and driving to the ultra-elliptical regime are examined in this context, and resulting future applications considered. Interpretation of the quantum dynamics of the separate x and y motions of an electron is discussed, motivated by the desire to modify the trapping potential without changing the basic experimental configuration. A detailed discussion of operator methods which exploit the algebraic structure of the problem is given. This results in a clearer understanding of the physical manifestations of a range of unitary transformations upon a general three-dimensional system, and a novel interpretation of the mapping between canonical angular momentum components of isotropic and anisotropic trapping systems. The results highly promote future use of these methods in Penning trap theory, detailing a robust formulation of unitary operations which can be used to prepare the quantum state of a charged particle. The majority of the results can be applied to any Penning trap, but the theory is based throughout upon the “Geonium Chip" trap at Sussex; the scalability and planar design of this trap promotes it as natural candidate in experimental quantum optics and Gaussian quantum information studies. The work in this thesis aims to provide framework for such future applications.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Schools and Departments:	School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences > Physics and Astronomy
Subjects:	Q Science > QC Physics > QC0350 Optics. Light > QC0395 Physical optics > QC0446.2 Nonlinear optics. Quantum optics
Depositing User:	Library Cataloguing
Date Deposited:	26 Mar 2018 11:17
Last Modified:	26 Mar 2018 11:17
URI:	http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/74654

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