Abstract
Dissipation can serve as a powerful resource for controlling the behavior of open quantum systems. Recently there has been a surge of interest in the influence of dissipative coupling on large quantum systems and, more specifically, how these processes can influence band topology and phenomena like many-body localization. Here, we explore the engineering of local, tunable dissipation in so-called synthetic lattices, arrays of quantum states that are parametrically coupled in a fashion analogous to quantum tunneling. Considering the specific case of momentum-state lattices, we investigate two distinct mechanisms for engineering controlled loss: one relying on an explicit form of dissipation by spontaneous emission, and another relying on reversible coupling to a large reservoir of unoccupied states. We experimentally implement the latter and demonstrate the ability to tune the local loss coefficient over a large range. The introduction of controlled loss to the synthetic lattice toolbox promises to pave the way for studying the interplay of dissipation with topology, disorder, and interactions.
Original language | English (US) |
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Article number | 045006 |
Journal | New Journal of Physics |
Volume | 21 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Apr 29 2019 |
Keywords
- dissipation
- loss
- non-Hermitian
- quantum simulation
- synthetic dimensions
- synthetic lattice
- ultracold atoms
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physics and Astronomy(all)