On the Classical Model for Microwave Induced Escape from a Josephson Washboard Potential

Abstract

We revisit the interpretation of earlier low temperature experiments on Josephson junctions under the influence of applied microwaves. It was claimed that these experiments unambiguously established a quantum phenomenology with discrete levels in shallow wells of the washboard potential, and macroscopic quantum tunneling. We here apply the previously developed classical theory to a direct comparison with the original experimental observations, and we show that the experimental data can be accurately represented classically. Thus, our analysis questions the necessity of the earlier quantum mechanical interpretation.

4 pages, one table, three figures. Submitted for publication on December 14, 2009