State reduction dynamics in a simplified QED model

Abstract

A simplified model of quantum electrodynamics involving a charged two-state system interacting with an electromagnetic field mode is examined. By extending the Schrodinger equation to include stochastic and nonlinear terms the dynamical process of quantum state reduction can be represented. A specific choice of modified Schrodinger dynamics is shown to result in stable coherent field states. The two-state system undergoes an induced state reduction to a generalised current state due to its interaction with the field mode. Numerical results are presented demonstrating state reduction dynamics for an initial superposition of two current states. An induced reduction time-scale for the two-state system is derived and confirmed by the numerics.