Non-ergodicity in open quantum systems through quantum feedback

Abstract

It is well known that quantum feedback can alter the dynamics of open quantum systems dramatically. In this paper, we show that non-ergodicity may be induced through quantum feedback and resultantly create system dynamics that have lasting dependence on initial conditions. To demonstrate this, we consider an optical cavity inside an instantaneous quantum feedback loop, which can be implemented relatively easily in the laboratory. Non-ergodic quantum systems are of interest for applications in quantum information processing, quantum metrology and quantum sensing and could potentially aid the design of thermal machines whose efficiency is not limited by the laws of classical thermodynamics.