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Beyond Boltzmann–Gibbs statistical mechanics in optical lattices

Nature Physics volume 9, pages 615–619 (2013)Cite this article

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Abstract

Cold atoms in dissipative optical lattices exhibit an unusual transport behaviour that cannot be described within Boltzmann–Gibbs statistical mechanics. New theoretical tools and concepts need thus be developed to account for their observable macroscopic properties. Here we review recent progress achieved in the study of these processes. We emphasize the generality of the findings for a broad class of physical, chemical and biological systems, and discuss open questions and perspectives for future work.

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Figure 1: Spatial diffusion exponent.
Figure 2: Power-law momentum distribution.
Figure 3: Self-similar position distribution.

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Acknowledgements

We thank the DFG (Contract No 1382/4-1) and the Leverhulme Trust for financial support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dahlem Center for Complex Quantum Systems, FU Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany

    Eric Lutz

  2. Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany

    Eric Lutz

  3. Department of Physics and Astronomy, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK

    Ferruccio Renzoni

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  1. Eric Lutz
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Correspondence to Ferruccio Renzoni.

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Lutz, E., Renzoni, F. Beyond Boltzmann–Gibbs statistical mechanics in optical lattices. Nature Phys 9, 615–619 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys2751

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