Geometric phases and the Sagnac effect: Foundational aspects and sensing applications

Abstract

Geometric phase is a key player in many areas of quantum science and technology. In this review article, several foundational aspects of quantum geometric phases and their relations to classical geometric phases are outlined. How the Aharonov--Bohm and Sagnac effects fit into this context is then discussed. Moreover, a concise overview of technological applications of the latter, with special emphasis on gravitational sensing, like in gyroscopes and gravitational wave detectors is presented.