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arXiv · 2201.08291

Quantum dual-path interferometry scheme for axion dark matter searches

Qiaoli Yang·Yu Gao·Zhihui Peng
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Abstract

Exploring the mysterious dark matter is a key quest in modern physics. Currently, detecting axions, a hypothetical particle proposed as a primary component of dark matter, remains a significant challenge due to their weakly interacting nature. Here we show at quantum level that in a cavity permeated by a magnetic field, the single axion-photon conversion rate is enhanced by the cavity quality factor and is quantitatively larger than the classical result by $\pi/2$. The axion cavity can be considered a quantum device emitting single photons with temporal separations. This differs from the classical picture and reveals a possibility for the axion cavity experiment to handle the signal sensitivity at the quantum level, e.g., a dual path quantum interferometry with cross-power and second-order correlation measurements. This scheme would greatly reduce the signal scanning time and improve the sensitivity of the axion-photon coupling, potentially leading to the direct observation of axions.

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Qiaoli Yang, Yu Gao, Zhihui Peng. 2022-01-20. Quantum dual-path interferometry scheme for axion dark matter searches. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42005-024-01770-y

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