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Quantum Box - Quantum Optics and Interferometry

The Quantum Box (QBox) is a collaboration between openUC2 and TH Münster/OQ3 that brings advanced quantum optics and interferometry experiments to an accessible, modular platform. Explore the wave nature of light, interference phenomena, and even quantum mechanical concepts.

What You'll Learn​

  • Principles of optical interferometry
  • Coherence and interference of light waves
  • Quantum mechanical concepts in optics
  • Polarization phenomena
  • Precision optical alignment techniques
  • ODMR (Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance)

Experiments in this Section​

1. Michelson Interferometer​

Build the classic interferometer that has been fundamental in advancing our understanding of light and space-time. The Michelson interferometer splits a coherent beam into two paths and recombines them to create interference patterns that reveal optical path differences and wave properties.

Learn: Wave optics, coherence, optical path differences, precision alignment

2. Mach-Zehnder Interferometer​

Construct a split-beam interferometer where reference and sample beams travel through completely separate paths before recombination. This configuration is particularly powerful for quantitative phase imaging and microscopy applications.

Learn: Split-beam interferometry, phase imaging, holography, off-axis techniques

3. Polarization Experiments​

Explore how light's polarization can be manipulated and analyzed through various experiments including:

  • Crossed polarizers
  • Stress birefringence in materials
  • Three polarizer paradox
  • Malus's Law

Learn: Polarization states, birefringence, optical activity, polarimetry

4. Quantum Eraser Experiment​

(Coming soon) A fascinating demonstration of quantum mechanical principles where which-path information can be "erased" to restore interference patterns.

Learn: Quantum mechanics, complementarity principle, wave-particle duality

5. ODMR (Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance)​

Explore the interaction between light, magnetic fields, and electron spins using nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond. This experiment demonstrates quantum sensing and is available in both English and German tutorials.

Learn: Quantum sensing, electron spin resonance, NV centers, magnetic field detection

Key Capabilities​

  • Precision interferometric measurements
  • Quantitative phase imaging
  • Polarization analysis
  • Quantum optics demonstrations
  • Magnetic resonance detection
  • Vibration-sensitive experiments requiring stable platforms

Required Components​

Core Components:​

  • Coherent laser source (532nm, minimum coherence length >10cm)
  • Precision kinematic mirrors with adjustment screws
  • 50:50 beam splitter cubes
  • Converging lenses for beam conditioning
  • Pinhole apertures for spatial filtering
  • Neutral density filters

Detection:​

  • HIKrobot Camera for quantitative measurements (optional)
  • Screen for visual observation
  • Computer for data acquisition

Mechanical:​

  • UC2 modular cubes with threaded inserts
  • Base plates for rigid mounting
  • Precision screwdriver set (1.5mm hex key)
  • Vibration isolation or stable optical table recommended

Additional for ODMR:​

  • NV diamond sample
  • Microwave generator
  • Magnetic field coils

Applications​

  • Quantum mechanics education
  • Precision optical measurements
  • Quantum sensing experiments
  • Polarimetry and birefringence studies
  • Phase imaging and holography
  • Physics laboratory courses

Perfect for physics students, quantum optics researchers, educators, and anyone fascinated by the quantum nature of light!