Cavity-induced bifurcation in classical rate theory

Abstract

We show how coupling an ensemble of bistable systems to a common cavity field affects the collective stochastic behavior of this ensemble. In particular, the cavity provides an effective interaction between the systems, and parametrically modifies the transition rates between the metastable states. We predict that for a coupling strength exceeding a certain threshold, the cavity induces a spontaneous symmetry breaking where the stationary states of the bistable system bifurcate and the systems coalesce preferentially in one of the states. The effect crucially depends on the distribution of system-cavity coupling strengths. In the case of alternating signs of the couplings, the bifurcation shows up as a phase separation. Our results are of particular relevance in polaritonic chemistry where the presence of a cavity has been suggested to affect chemical reactions.

Theory for polaritonic quantum tunneling

“…in terms of the true coupling constants g. Thus, the relevant distribution is that of g 2 . This is in contrast to our recent work focusing on bistable potentials in the thermal activation regime where we found that the distribution of g plays an important role [33].…”

“…This paper considers only a truly metastable potential. An alternative system would be a bistable potential, which we have considered in the thermal activation limit [33]. For the low-temperature limit, the approach would have to be different than what I present here because there are no similar instantons.…”

Theory for polaritonic quantum tunneling

“…in terms of the true coupling constants g. Thus, the relevant distribution is that of g 2 . This is in contrast to our recent work focusing on bistable potentials in the thermal activation regime where we found that the distribution of g plays an important role [30].…”

“…This article considers only a truly metastable potential. An alternative system would be a bistable potential which we considered in the thermal activation limit [30]. For the low-temperature limit, the approach would have to be different than what I present here because there are no similar instantons.…”