Abstract :: Omar S. Magana-Loaiza
Observation of the quantum dynamics of a classical macroscopic system
Omar S. Magana-Loaiza
Quantum Photonics Laboratory, Department of Physics & Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
The correspondence principle establishes the connection between the so-called quantum and classical worlds. This principle stipulates that the quantum mechanical description of macroscopic systems, comprising large numbers of particles, approaches the predictions of classical physics. Here, we report on the observation of the nonclassical dynamics of a classical macroscopic system. This is demonstrated through a process of multiphoton scattering mediated by twisted paths endowed with orbital angular momentum. This platform enables accurate projections of the scattered macroscopic system into isolated multiphoton subsystems that are governed by quantum dynamics. Interestingly, the multiphoton dynamics of the subsystems can be opposite to that exhibited by the macroscopic system. These findings unveil universal properties of many-body systems that are relevant for fields ranging from condensed matter to high-energy physics.
Bio sketch:
Omar Magana received his doctoral degree from the University of Rochester in 2016, and then became a research associate at NIST Boulder. In 2018, he joined LSU where he is now an associate professor of physics and leader of the Experimental Quantum Photonics Group. The research of his group investigates novel properties of light and their potential for quantum technologies. This research has been featured in the cover of multiple prestigious journals, and highlighted across platforms, including print media, TV, the Internet, and radio. His academic career was highlighted in Physics Today. In addition, he was a recipient of the Early Career Program from the Army Research Office. The research performed by his group is currently being supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the Army Research Office.