Loss of quantum coherence in a system coupled to a zero-temperature environment

Abstract

We discuss the influence of a zero-temperature environment on a coherent quantum system. First, we calculate the reduced density operator of the system in the framework of the well-known, exactly solvable model of an oscillator coupled to a bath of harmonic oscillators. Then, we propose the sketch of an Aharonov-Bohm-like interferometer showing, through interference measurements, the decrease of the coherence length of the system due to the interaction with the environment, even in the zero temperature limit.

Quantum thermodynamics of a charged magneto-oscillator coupled to a heat bath

“…Also Ratchov et al discussed about decrease in coherence length of Aharonov-Bohm like interferrometer due to the interaction with a zero temperature environment. Again, one can think of extending this work by following the method used in this paper for the finite temperature analysis [44]. Apart from that, one can think of another area in which thermodynamics plays a crucial role.…”

Quantum thermodynamic functions for an oscillator coupled to a heat bath

“…Since their work was confined to zero temperature, it would be of interest to extend it to non-zero temperatures. In a similar vein, the decrease of the coherence length of an Aharonov-Bohm-like interferometer due to interaction with the environment was examined but again it was confined to zero temperature [15].…”

Mesoscopic electron transport and atomic gases, a review of Frank W. J. Hekking's scientific work

“…Low-dimensional conductors and superconductors, normal-superconductor junctions, heat transport and quantum thermodynamics, quantum phase slips, Josephson junctions are among the main keywords associated to his contributions. Unfortunately, the outline of this review did not allow us to describe a series of other works [133][134][135][136][137][138][139][140].…”