Quantum theory of a Bose-Einstein condensate out of equilibrium

We consider the interaction between a single-mode quantized perturbing external field and a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) out of equilibrium. The usual Rabi type oscillations between the ground and the excited state of the coherent topological modes are observed with a Rabi frequency modified by the two-body atomic interactions. Taking into account the granular structure of the external perturbing field reveals the well know phenomena of collapse and revival of the Rabi oscillations. In particular, we find that atomic interactions reduce the Rabi frequency and also affect the collapse and revival sequence. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.