Superradiance and Subradiance in an Inhomogeneously Broadened Ensemble of Two-Level Systems Coupled to a Low-Q Cavity

摘要

The collective spontaneous emission of a fully inverted inhomogeneously broadened ensemble of N two-level systems coupled to a single-mode low- Q cavity is investigated numerically using Monte Carlo wave function technique. An intrinsically bi-exponential emission dynamics is found when the time scales of superradiance τ_(sr) and inhomogeneous dephasing T_2~* ～ 1/△ω_(inh) become comparable: a fast super-radiant is followed by a slow subradiant decay. Experimental configurations using ensembles of quantum dots coupled to optical microcavities are proposed as possible candidates to observe the combined superradiant and subradiant energy relaxation.