Abstract

Based on the first principles of quantum mechanic the density of probability distribution function W(x,p) is created for quantum electromagnetic field (QEF) - Figs. 1, 2. Unlike a well-known distributions of density of quasi-probability (as Wigner function et.c.) W(x,p) can be measured directly in 8-port homodyne experiment or in the experiment we propose. Using W(x,p) one can calculate the probability to have the field quadratures x and p in a chosen area of a phase space, find the minimum in amplitude or phase fluctuations of QEF. W(x,p) predicts the lemniscate-of-ellipse shape of the dispersion of squeezed QEF (Loudon, 1989; Kimble, 1986). Using a methods of quantum optic in experimental study of W(x,p) one can reconstruct the wave function of QEF and, in principle, the wave function of an emitting substance.

© 1992 Optical Society of America