Statistical time-domain characterization of non-periodic optical clocks
Institute of Theoretical Physics & IQST, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11 89081, Ulm, Germany
Universit$\grave{a}$ degli Studi di Palermo, Dipartimento di Fisica e Chimica - Emilio Segrè, via Archirafi 36, I-90123 Palermo, Italy
Published: | 2022-07-14, volume 6, page 764 |
Eprint: | arXiv:2201.06548v2 |
Doi: | https://doi.org/10.22331/q-2022-07-14-764 |
Citation: | Quantum 6, 764 (2022). |
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Abstract
Measuring time means counting the occurrence of periodic phenomena. Over the past centuries a major effort was put to make stable and precise oscillators to be used as clock regulators. Here we consider a different class of clocks based on stochastic clicking processes. We provide a rigorous statistical framework to study the performances of such devices and apply our results to a single coherently driven two-level atom under photodetection as an extreme example of non-periodic clock. Quantum Jump MonteCarlo simulations and photon counting waiting time distribution will provide independent checks on the main results.

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