Control of Quantum Systems

The control of quantum physical systems refers to those whose behavior is dominated by the laws of quantum mechanics. The effective capabilities of manipulating matter and light at those scales is steadily growing and new experimental and technological possibilities are at reach, the interest in developing systematic theories for controlled quantum mechanical systems is rapidly increasing. The advantage offered by quantum information processes such as in spintronic devices has given to quantum control a new perspective, the ability of employing quantum systems to store, manipulate and retrieve information. It requires an unprecedented degree of control, and further motivates the development of control schemes specifically designed to the quantum mechanical setting. Over the past fifteen years, significant developments have been made in utilizing quantum attributes of light and matter to assume unprecedented control over the dynamics of atomic and molecular systems. This growth reflects a confluence of factors including the better understanding of quantum mechanics as a tool for chemistry and physics, the development of new laser devices increasing our ability to manipulate light, and the recognition that coherent laser light can be used to imprint information on atoms and molecules for practical purposes. In this book we cover some aspects of the basics and controlling of quantum systems using a theoretical and applied approaches, from the very grounds of the theory to some hybrid approaches to quantum control. Hope this book can guide the reader into the deeps of this fascinating field.