Quantum optics seminar
Composite quantum particles at the interface with general relativity - foundations and applications
Dr. Magdalena Zych
University of Queensland
Abstract
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88426146153
Abstract: A major goal of modern physics is to understand and test the regime where quantum mechanics and general relativity both play a role. I will discuss why and how looking at composite particles opens new avenues for both theoretical insights and laboratory tests of quantum and general relativistic effects. I will also show that composite particles have a natural interpretation as ideal quantum clocks, detectors, and even thermometers, and will highlight new results arising from this approach; for example, that semi-classical states of free composite particles are not Gaussian but a new class of states derived from a new uncertainty inequality for configuration space rather than for phase space variables.
Abstract: A major goal of modern physics is to understand and test the regime where quantum mechanics and general relativity both play a role. I will discuss why and how looking at composite particles opens new avenues for both theoretical insights and laboratory tests of quantum and general relativistic effects. I will also show that composite particles have a natural interpretation as ideal quantum clocks, detectors, and even thermometers, and will highlight new results arising from this approach; for example, that semi-classical states of free composite particles are not Gaussian but a new class of states derived from a new uncertainty inequality for configuration space rather than for phase space variables.