First-Passage-Time Distributions under the Influence of Quantum Fluctuations in a Laser

Abstract

The distribution of first-passage times is calculated for a homogeneously broadened two-mode laser, that is characterized by a bistable potential. As a consequence of quantum fluctuations, such a system tends to switch spontaneously between the two metastable states. The results of the calculation are compared with first-passage-time measurements of a two-mode dye laser.