Comparison between different models for quantum jump superoperators in cavity QED experiments

Abstract

We propose an experimental scheme to probe the mathematical form of quantum jump operators used in the theory of continuous photodetection and quantum trajectories in cavities. For this aim, we propose two main steps to be followed in an experimental design: (1) pass an atom through a high-Q cavity containing an electromagnetic field prepared in a thermal or coherent state, in order to enforce the absorption of one or more photons and (2) subsequently produce a measurement of the photon statistics in the new field state arising after the photon absorption. Then, comparing the probabilities of finding zero and one photon in the initial and final states of the field, one can draw conclusions on the form of the quantum jump operators. This scheme can be readily applied in a QED microwave cavity with the present-day technology, and it allows experimental investigations of the theory of quantum jumps due to different kinds of hypothetical reservoirs.