The Quantum Theory of Nonlinear Optics

by Peter D. Drummond, Mark Hillery

Overview

Playing a prominent role in communications, quantum science and laser physics, quantum nonlinear optics is an increasingly important field. This book presents a self-contained treatment of field quantization and covers topics such as the canonical formalism for fields, phase-space representations and the encompassing problem of quantization of electrodynamics in linear and nonlinear media. Starting with a summary of classical nonlinear optics, it then explains in detail the calculation techniques for quantum nonlinear optical systems and their applications, quantum and classical noise sources in optical fibers and applications of nonlinear optics to quantum information science. Supplemented by end-of-chapter exercises and detailed examples of calculation techniques in different systems, this book is a valuable resource for graduate students and researchers in nonlinear optics, condensed matter physics, quantum information and atomic physics. A solid foundation in quantum mechanics and classical electrodynamics is assumed, but no prior knowledge of nonlinear optics is required.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781107004214
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	03/27/2014
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	380
Product dimensions:	7.28(w) x 9.69(h) x 0.91(d)

About the Author

Peter D. Drummond is a Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology. His current research focuses on ultra-cold atomic physics, quantum information and bio-informatics.

Mark Hillery is a Professor at the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hunter College, and in the Physics Graduate Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York. His research focuses on the field of quantum information.

Table of Contents

1. Classical nonlinear optics; 2. Field quantization; 3. Quantized fields in dielectric media; 4. Microscopic description of media; 5. Coherence and quantum dynamics in simple system; 6. Decoherence and reservoirs; 7. Phase-space representations; 8. Single-mode devices; 9. Degenerate parametric oscillator; 10. Quantum fields in waveguides; 11. Quantum propagation in nonlinear fibers; 12. Quantum information.

Editorial Reviews

"This book is a valuable contribution to the scientific literature by addressing issues that fall at the boundary between quantum optics and nonlinear optics. It is exactly at this boundary where one might expect exciting advances to develop in the coming years. The authors have done a good job in selecting the topics for inclusion in their very fine text."
Robert W. Boyd, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Quantum Nonlinear Optics, University of Ottawa, and University of Rochester

"Two of the pioneers of quantum optics have produced a clear introduction to the quantum theory of nonlinear optical processes with applications ranging from laser physics to quantum information. The powerful method of P representations to treat quantum stochastic processes is introduced with exemplary clarity and many examples. This is an essential introduction for graduate students, who will appreciate the carefully chosen problem sets, and a valuable reference for experienced researchers in the field."
Gerard J. Milburn, Centre Director, Centre for Engineered Quantum Systems, University of Queensland

"… [a] highly recommended textbook … The derivations are self-contained and mathematically rigorous."
Barry R. Masters, Optics and Photonics News

From the Publisher