Instability of multi-mode systems with quadratic Hamiltonians

Abstract

We present a novel geometric approach for determining the unique structure of a Hamiltonian and establishing an instability criterion for quantum quadratic systems. Our geometric criterion provides insights into the underlying geometric perspective of instability: A quantum quadratic system is dynamically unstable if and only if its Hamiltonian is non-elliptic (i.e., hyperbolic or lineal). By applying our geometric method, we analyze the stability of two-mode and three-mode optomechanical systems. Remarkably, our approach demonstrates that these systems can be stabilized over a wider range of system parameters compared to the conventional rotating wave approximation (RWA) assumption. Furthermore, we reveal that the systems transit their phases from stable to unstable, when the system parameters cross specific critical boundaries. The results imply the presence of multistability in the optomechanical systems.