Effective potential: <em>V</em>(<em>x</em>) in the range −π < <em>x</em> < π for (a) α = 0.4 and (b) α = 1.4 René John Kerkdyk S Sinha 10.6084/m9.figshare.1012759.v1 https://iop.figshare.com/articles/figure/_Effective_potential_em_V_em_em_x_em_in_the_range_lt_em_x_em_lt_for_a_0_4_and_b_1_4/1012759 <p><strong>Figure 2.</strong> Effective potential: <em>V</em>(<em>x</em>) in the range −π < <em>x</em> < π for (a) α = 0.4 and (b) α = 1.4. <em>W</em>(<em>x</em>) for (c) α = 0.4 and (d) α = 1.4.</p> <p><strong>Abstract</strong></p> <p>We study the quantum dynamics of a Bose–Josephson junction made up of two coupled Bose–Einstein condensates. We analyse different dynamical branches of Josephson oscillations within an 'effective potential' approach. At a critical coupling strength, a transition takes place between the dynamical branches of Josephson oscillations, which is also manifested in the energy spectrum, and pairs of (quasi)-degenerate excited states appear above the critical coupling strength. This phenomenon can be understood in terms of change in shape of the 'effective potential'. Possible novel quantum phenomena like decay of metastable 'π-oscillation' by 'macroscopic quantum tunnelling' (MQT) and MQT between the 'self-trapped' states with equal and opposite number imbalance become evident from the simple picture of 'effective potential'.</p> 2013-09-05 00:00:00 Josephson oscillations novel quantum phenomena macroscopic quantum tunnelling 0.4 strength lt MQT bose 1.4. Atomic Physics Molecular Physics