Title: A levitated nanoparticle as a classical two-level atom,
Abstract: The center-of-mass motion of a single optically levitated nanoparticle
resembles three uncoupled harmonic oscillators. We show how a suitable
modulation of the optical trapping potential can give rise to a coupling
between two of these oscillators, such that their dynamics are governed by a
classical equation of motion that resembles the Schrödinger equation for a
two-level system. Based on experimental data, we illustrate the dynamics of
this parametrically coupled system both in the frequency and in the time
domain. We discuss the limitations and differences of the mechanical analogue
in comparison to a true quantum mechanical system.