Superradiant switching, quantum hysteresis, and oscillations in a generalized Dicke model

Abstract

We demonstrate quantum signatures of deterministic nonlinear dynamics in the transition to superradiance of a generalized open Dicke model with different coupling strengths for the co- and counterrotating light-matter interaction terms. A first-order phase transition to coexisting normal and superradiant phases is observed, corresponding with the emergence of switching dynamics between these two phases, driven by quantum fluctuations. We show that this phase coexistence gives rise to a hysteresis loop also for the quantum mechanical system. Additionally, a transition to a superradiant oscillatory phase is observed clearly in quantum simulations.