Classical versus quantum dynamics of the atomic Josephson junction

We compare the classical (mean-field) dynamics with the quantum dynamics of atomic Bose–Einstein condensates in double-well potentials. The quantum dynamics are computed using a simple scheme based on the Raman–Nath equations. Two different methods for exciting a non-equilibrium state are considered: an asymmetry between the wells which is suddenly removed and a periodic time oscillating asymmetry. The first method generates wave packets that …