We review the dynamical statistical theory of the interaction of an atom with a cavity radiation field in the framework of exactly solvable Jaynes-Cummings type models.
In this thesis we present a theoretical analysis of some of the implications of the quantum nature of the electromagnetic field.In particular, we are interested in how atomic dynamics are modified by coupling to a quantized radiation field.In chapter two we review the Jaynes-Cummings model of atom-field interactions.This model consists of a single two-level atom coupled to a single mode of the radiation field.The evolution of the atom depends upon the initial quantum state of the field mode.Chapter three is a review of the quantum theory of dissipation.In chapter four we examine the properties of the thermofield states of the two-mode, quantized radiation fields.We investigate the use of these states as a representation of single mode thermal states.The thermo field representation is used to describe interactions involving thermal averages and in an analysis of two-mode squeezing in parametric amplifiers.Chapters five to seven are concerned with the Rydberg atom maser.In chapter five we review some of the properties of Rydberg atoms in cavities and consider the validity of the Jaynes-Cummings model as a description of the maser.In chapter six we discuss the modification of the atomic dynamics when more than one atom is present in the cavity.We show how the collective atomic inversion is influenced by many-atom effects, as well as the photon statistical effects present in the single atom Jaynes-CHAPTER