Abstract
We discuss the detection of quantum fluctuations in the light of the general van Hove - type relationship between time-dependent correlators and measurable properties. Considering the interaction between the fluctuating electron system and a resonant circuit or a photon mode, we prove that zero point fluctuations (ZPF) are not observable by a passive detector, corroborating the results of Lesovik and Loosen. By a passive detector we mean one which is itself effectively in the ground state, and can not transfer energy to the ZPF whose detection is attempted. We find that the ZPF can, on the other hand, be observed through the absorption spectrum, via the deexcitation of an active detector. We also make the connection between these statements and the recent discussion of whether decoherence can be caused by the ZPF. We derive a useful general formula for the dephasing rate and use it along with the detailed-balance condition, to prove that the dephasing rate vanishes at the T → 0 limit. The distinction is made between decoherence via making a real excitation in the environment and effects due to its polarization by virtual excitations.
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Gavish, U., Levinson, Y., Imry, Y. (2001). On the Detection of Quantum Noise and Low-Temperature Dephasing. In: Haug, R., Schoeller, H. (eds) Interacting Electrons in Nanostructures. Lecture Notes in Physics, vol 579. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-45532-9_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-45532-9_9
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