Quantum Optics
Kvantoptik

FMFN30, 7.5 credits, A (Second Cycle)

Valid for: 2025/26
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering LTH
Decided by: PLED F/Pi
Date of Decision: 2025-04-10
Effective: 2025-05-05

General Information

Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: Second cycle, in-depth level of the course cannot be classified
Elective for: F4, F4-nf, F4-tf, F4-kv, MFOT1, MNAV1, N4
Language of instruction: The course will be given in English

Aim

Quantized electromagnetic waves, called photons, are central for basic physical effects such as heat radiation or the spontaneous emission of light. Moreover, the quantum coherence between photons has confirmed the most astonishing predictions of quantum mechanics. This also revolutionized cryptography and sensing with high precision. The aim of the course is to develop the underlying theory and to provide in-depth knowledge on the interaction of photons with material, where applications in quantum technology are emphasized.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

• be able to explain the quantization of electromagnetic waves
• be able to distinguish between thermal and laser light
• be able to describe the Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometer
• be able to describe applications of photons for quantum technology
• be able to describe the Jaynes-Cunnings model for the interaction between photons and materials
• be able to discuss the origin and applications of parametric resonance.

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

• be able to perform simple calculations for quantum interference of photons
• be able to apply density matrices for the simulation of quantum systems with dephasing
• be able to structure the course material in independently written text.

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

• be able to independently search for information beyond the course literature
• be able to reflect over the general relevance of quantum mechanics.

Contents

The course deals with

• quantum properties of light
• squeezed photon states
• applications of entangled photons
• density matrices in quantum mechanics
• interactions between photons and material

The material follows established textbooks as separately given in the literature list. The teaching consists of lectures, laboratory sessions, and exercise sessions. Participation in the laboratory sessions together with related tasks is mandatory

Examination details

Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5) - (Fail, Three, Four, Five)
Assessment:

Examination is arranged by written answers to exercises and question on the course content, which are handed out during the course. The independently formulated answers are collected in a portfolio from each student, which is handed in at the end of the course and has to be defended orally.

For students who have not passed are allowed to hand in a new portfolio and defend it at a later instance by mutual agreement.

The examiner, in consultation with Disability Support Services, may deviate from the regular form of examination in order to provide a permanently disabled student with a form of examination equivalent to that of a student without a disability.

Modules
Code: 0124. Name: Quantum Optics - Examination.
Credits: 7.5. Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5). Assessment: Examination takes place in writing in the form of a self-written portfolio with answers to content questions and exercises, defended orally at the end of the course. The module includes: The entire course.

Admission

Assumed prior knowledge: Knowledge in quantum mechanics corresponding to the content of FMFN01 Quantum Mechanics, Advanced Course 1.
The number of participants is limited to: No

Reading list

• Gerry, C. G. and Knight L. K: Introductory quantum optics. Cambridge, UK ; New York : Cambridge University Press, 2024, ISBN: 978-1-009-41529-3. 2. edition.
  https://www.cambridge.org/highereducation/books/introductory-quantum-optics/

Contact

Course coordinator: Andreas Wacker, andreas.wacker@teorfys.lu.se
Examinator: Andreas Wacker, andreas.wacker@teorfys.lu.se
Course homepage: https://canvas.education.lu.se/

Further information

The course is in full coordinated with FYST83 Quantum Optics, 7.5 credits, which is a course given at the Faculty of Science.