An introduction to quantum optomechanics

Abstract

We provide an introduction to the description of mechanical systems in the quantum regime, and provide a review of the various types of micro-scale and nano-scale optomechanical and electromechanical systems. The aim is to achieve quantum control of micromechanical and nanomechanical resonators using the electromagnetic field. Such control requires the demonstration of state preparation (in particular, cooling to the ground state), coherent control and quantum-limited measurement. These problems are discussed in turn. Some particular problems in force detection, metrology, nonlinear optomechanics and many-body optomechanics are also discussed.