Measurements, wavefunction collapse and dynamics of the quantum impact oscillator

Acharya, Arnab (2024) Measurements, wavefunction collapse and dynamics of the quantum impact oscillator. PhD thesis, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata.

Text (PhD thesis of Arnab Acharya (14IP031)) 14IP031.pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (25MB)

Abstract

This thesis presents an exploration of various aspects of quantum dynamics, collapse mechanisms, and measurement statistics, which collectively contribute to a deeper understanding of quantum behavior. The first chapter investigates the quantum dynamics of a classically chaotic system, revealing a new form of aperiodic wavefunction evolution with strange nonchaotic character. Diagnostic tests confirm this intriguing finding. In the second chapter, statistical properties of periodic measurements on a quantum harmonic oscillator are analyzed, with implications for particle localization accuracy. The third chapter proposes interaction-induced wavefunction collapse models in an impact oscillator, o↵ering testable predictions for energy and position distributions. Collectively, this research expands our understanding of quantum dynamics. The observed strange nonchaotic behavior opens new avenues for exploring quantum phenomena and potential applications. Proposed collapse models challenge conventional interpretations, o↵ering insights into quantum mechanics’ foundations. Statistical analysis of measurements indicated a possibility to control quantum systems. Our findings call for experimental validation, possibly with the supercooled nanomechanical cantilever systems.

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