Quantum Optomechanics: Molecular Vibrations and Light Correlations

This lecture explores the quantum correlations between light and molecular vibrations, focusing on topics such as normal modes in periodic crystals, optical phonons, quantum theory of Raman scattering, and thermal noise in optomechanical systems. The instructor delves into the quantization of molecular vibrations, the quantum model of Raman scattering, and the preparation of phonon Fock states. The lecture also discusses evidence for macroscopic quantum superpositions and optomechanical frequency conversion. Various experimental techniques and theoretical concepts are presented, shedding light on the intricate interplay between light and molecular vibrations.