A Group‐Theoretical Approach to Quantum Optics

F. T. Arecchi

A. B. Klimov, Sergei Chumakov

Written by major contributors to the field who are well known within the community, this is the first comprehensive summary of the many results generated by this approach to quantum optics to date. As such, the book analyses selected topics of quantum optics, focusing on atom-field interactions from a group-theoretical perspective, while discussing the principal quantum optics models using algebraic language. The overall result is a clear demonstration of the advantages of applying algebraic methods to quantum optics problems, illustrated by a number of end-of-chapter problems. An invaluable s

V. V. Dodonov, Man, V.I. ko

This book contains papers presented at the XVIII International Colloquium on Group Theoretical Methods in Physics held in Moscow on June 4-9, 1990. Topics covered include; applications of algebraic methods in quantum field theory, quantum mechanics, quantum optics, spectrum generating groups, quantum algebras, symmetries of equations, quantum physics, coherent states, group representations and space groups.

Marlan O. Scully, Kenneth G. Whitney

E. C. G. Sudarshan, R. Simon, Narasimhaiengar Mukunda

The scalar wave equation is analyzed in the relativistic front form, appropriate for paraxial-wave optics. The group-theoretical basis for this treatment is uncovered. The formal similarity of the propagation of paraxial beams through optical systems to the quantum mechanics of particles in two dimensions subject to harmonic impulses, and the role of the metaplectic group of Bacry and Cadilhac, are both traced back to the structure of the Poincar\'e group. Light rays are defined in this context as in statistical-wave optics, and the laws for their free propagation as well as transmission through lenses are derived.