simulations.

In Chapter 3, we explain a method for reducing the computational scope of

these simulations for systems with large numbers of photons and phonons. In Chapter 4,
we explain a filter-cavity method which can be used to calculate time-dependent spectra
of cavity systems. Finally, in Chapter 5, we use a cavity system to model the dynamical
Casimir effect, which results in the creation of photon pairs out of a quantum vacuum state.

Figure 1.1: A hybrid optomechanical system with a cavity, two-level atom, and movable
mirror. The labeled parameters are explained in subsequent sections.

1.1 Cavity
A cavity is used to keep photons localized to a region in space. Since photons reflecting off
the mirrors typically make many round trips in the cavity, this strengthens the interactions
with the atom and movable mirror when they are added later.
The use of a cavity also limits the frequencies of photons found inside. Classically, a
cavity of length L between two mirrors can contain an electric field subject to the standing
wave condition for allowed frequencies,

cm
fm = , (1.1)
2L