OPTICAL ATOMS

This chapter describes the optical atoms. A particular analogous system is formed by two (or four) coupled optical modes, called an “optical atom.” The optical atom allows exact realization of popular model Hamiltonians of quantum optics, and thus allows “ideal” experiments. The attraction and convenience of the system is its macroscopic nature, which allows precise control of all parameters over the ranges that are sometimes not accessible in the case of real atoms. The driven optical ring resonator forms a system for simulating resonance physics of microscopic systems. An important advantage of the macroscopic nature of this system is that, all parameters are accessible to direct experimental control, including those in which the corresponding microscopic quantum system would be difficult or impossible to vary. The chapter establishes the analogy between a quantum two-level atom and the classical limit of two coupled optical modes (optical atom). The optical band structure and four-level systems are explained. The chapter discusses two-level systems and their dynamical behavior if one of the system parameters is modulated. Some future experimental possibilities for the optical atom as a model for microscopic systems are reviewed. © 1993, Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.