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402-0533-00L 6 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-PHYS
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Quantum Acoustics and Optomechanics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Yiwen Chu
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:25

Abstract

This course gives an introduction to the interaction of mechanical motion with electromagnetic fields in the quantum regime. There are parallels between the quantum descriptions of mechanical resonators, electrical circuits, and light, but each system also has its own unique properties. We will explore how interfacing them can be useful for technological applications and fundamental science.

Objective

The goal of this course is provide the introductory knowledge necessary to understand current research in quantum acoustics and optomechanics. As part of this goal, we will also cover some related aspects of acoustics, quantum optics, and circuit/cavity quantum electrodynamics.

Content

The focus of this course will be on the properties of and interactions between mechanical and electromagnetic systems in the context of quantum information and technologies. We will only briefly touch upon precision measurement and sensing with optomechanics since it is the topic of another course (227-0653-00L). Some topics that will be covered are: - Mechanical motion and acoustics in solid state materials - Quantum description of motion, electrical circuits, and light. - Different models for quantum interactions: optomechanical, Jaynes-Cummings, etc. - Mechanisms for mechanical coupling to electromagnetic fields: piezoelectricity, electrostriction, radiation pressure, etc. - Coherent interactions vs. dissipative processes: phenomenon and applications in different regimes. - State-of the art electromechanical and optomechanical systems.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Notes will be provided for each lecture.

Literature

Parts of books and research papers will be used.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Every two years

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Assessment for the course will take the form of a seminar-style oral presentation at the end of the semester. Possible topics for the presentation will be distributed around the middle of the semester.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Quantum Acoustics and Optomechanics
  • Tue 14:45-16:30 (HIL E 10.1)
  • Tue 15:00-17:00 (ER SA TZ)
  • 18.02 Date 14:45-16:30 (HIL E 5)
  • 25.02 Date 16:45-17:30 (HIL E 10.1)
  • 10.03 Date 16:45-17:30 (HIL E 10.1)
2 h weekly
exercise Quantum Acoustics and Optomechanics
  • Wed 11:45-12:30 (HIL D 10.2)
  • Wed 12:00-13:00 (ER SA TZ)
  • 19.02 Date 11:45-12:30 (HIL E 5)
1 h weekly

Offered In