Abstract
We study the quantum tunneling of two one-dimensional quasi-condensates made of alkali-metal atoms, considering two different tunneling configurations: side-by-side and head-to-tail. After deriving the quasiparticle excitation spectrum, we discuss the dynamics of the relative phase following a sudden coupling of the independent subsystems. In particular, we calculate the coherence factor of the system, which, due to the nonzero tunneling amplitude, it exhibits dephasing–rephasing oscillations instead of pure dephasing. These oscillations are enhanced by a higher tunneling energy, and by higher system densities. Our predictions provide a benchmark for future experiments at temperatures below T ≲ 5 nK.
Highlights
The interference of incoherent waves and the emergence of beats are fundamental physical phenomena, which can be observed both in classical and in quantum systems
After deriving the quasiparticle excitation spectrum, we discuss the dynamics of the relative phase following a sudden coupling of the independent subsystems
We find that the sudden coupling of the independent quasicondensates produces an interesting nonequilibrium dynamics of the relative phase between the subsystems
Summary
Dipartimento di Fisica e Astronomia ’Galileo Galilei’, Universita di Padova, via Marzolo 8, 35131 Padova, Italy. Dipartimento di Scienze Matematiche, Fisiche ed Informatiche, Universita di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 7/A, 43124 Parma, Italy INFN, Sezione di Milano Bicocca, Gruppo Collegato di Parma, Parma, Italy
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
