Caustics in a Near-Resonant Quantum Kicked Rotor

Abstract: In this paper, we investigate the dynamics of the quantum kicked rotor in the near-resonant regime and observe a particular recurring cusp caustic of the wave functions' accumulation. We then derive the path integral expression of the quantum evolution and analytically determine the conditions for the caustic formation and recurring period. A scaling power law with Arnold index of $1/4$ relating to the wave amplitude enhancement depending on the kicking strength as well as the resonant detuning parameter, has been derived and verified. We also discuss classical-quantum correspondence of the caustics and find that chaos can disrupt the phase matching leading to the destruction of the caustic structure. Finally, possible experimental observations and some implications of these findings are discussed.