Quantum non-Gaussianity of multi-phonon states of a single atom

Abstract: Quantum non-Gaussian mechanical states from inherently nonlinear quantum processes are already required in a range of applications spanning from quantum sensing up to quantum computing with continuous variables. The discrete building blocks of such states are the energy eigenstates - Fock states. Despite the progress in their preparation, the remaining imperfections can still invisibly cause loss of the critical quantum non-Gaussian aspects of the phonon distribution relevant in the applications. We derive the most challenging hierarchy of quantum non-Gaussian criteria for the individual mechanical Fock states and demonstrate its implementation on the characterization of single trapped-ion oscillator states up to 10~phonons. We analyze the depth of quantum non-Gaussian features under mechanical heating and predict their application in quantum sensing. These results uncover that the crucial quantum non-Gaussian features are demanded to reach quantum advantage in the applications.