Quantum Zeno manipulation of quantum dots

We investigate whether and how the quantum Zeno effect, i.e., the inhibition of quantum evolution by frequent measurements, can be employed to isolate a quantum dot from its surrounding electron reservoir. In contrast to the often studied case of tunneling between discrete levels, we consider the tunneling of an electron from a continuum reservoir to a discrete level in the dot. Realizing the quantum Zeno effect in this scenario can be much harder because the measurements should be repeated before the wave packet of the hole left behind in the reservoir moves away from the vicinity of the dot. Thus the required repetition rate could be lowered by having a flat band (with a slow group velocity) in resonance with the dot or a sufficiently small Fermi velocity or a strong external magnetic field. We also consider the anti-Zeno effect, i.e., how measurements can accelerate or enable quantum evolution.

Automated summary

This paper investigates the potential application of the quantum Zeno effect in isolating a quantum dot from its surrounding electron reservoir, specifically focusing on the tunneling of an electron from a continuum reservoir to a discrete level in the dot. The study finds that achieving the quantum Zeno effect in this scenario can be challenging, but the required repetition rate can be lowered through certain methods. The paper also discusses the anti-Zeno effect and how measurements can accelerate or enable quantum evolution.