After deriving a general formula for the quantum probability distribution function higher moments, we apply it to the multiphoton squeezed states [the usual Gaussian and the new non-Gaussian Weyl-Heisenberg, SU(2), and SU(1,1)]. The resulting moments are discussed as functions of the photon-number fluctuations. General criteria are considered to determine optimal squeezing properties with respect to photon-number noise. There result interesting generalized uncertainty relations in the form of scaling laws.

• Received 4 March 1987

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.36.2399