Allgemeines Physikalisches Kolloquium im Wintersemester 2010/2011
Ort:    48149 Münster, Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 10, IG I, HS 2,
Zeit:    Donnerstag, 30.06.2011 16:00 Uhr c.t.
Kolloquiums-Kaffee ab 15:45 Uhr vor dem Hörsaal

Promises and Challenges in Quantum Nonlinear Optics

Prof. Dr. W. Boyd, University of Rochester

Nonlinear optics is a venerable branch of photonics and optical physics, dating back certainly to 1961 or even earlier.   Nonetheless, the field of nonlinear optics has recently experienced a renaissance by means of its application to problems in quantum information science and quantum optics.  In this talk, we first present a very rapid overview of the development of the field of nonlinear optics and then move on the survey some areas of recent research interest.

One such example is research in “slow” and “fast” light.  Research performed over the past several years has demonstrated new methods for controlling the velocity of propagation of light pulses through material systems.  Ultra slow velocities (tens of meters per second) and ultra fast velocities (including negative velocities) have been demonstrated.  This talk will present an overview of the field of slow and fast light and will include a discussion of some new ideas for applications of fast and slow light based on the use of room temperature solids.

Another topic of great current interest  is that of quantum imaging.  Image formation making use of quantum states of light allow dramatic new possibilities in the field of image science.  We review some of the conceptual possibilities afforded by quantum imaging and describe some recent work that displays some of these features.  In addition, we present some new experimental results on the role of coherence and indistinguishability in determining the properties of two-photon interference.

Einladender: Prof. Dr. C. Weinheimer

Im Auftrag der Hochschullehrer des Fachbereichs Physik