Evolution of Gaussian Distributions of Coherent States

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the dynamics of coupled quantum oscillators in the presence of a classical harmonic driving force. By means of a theorem which describes the evolution of Gaussian distributions of coherent states, the solutions of the equations of motion are presented in a very compact form. Specific applications deal with forced oscillation and parametric amplification. The theoretical models include systems of damping oscillators with a continuous frequency distribution. The approach to thermal equilibrium in the absence of a driving force is discussed as a special case.