Bloch space structure, the qutrit wavefunction and atom-field entanglement in three-level systems

► Three-level systems in the SU(3) basis are solved exactly, using the Euler matrix formalism. ► The Bloch equations for each semiclassical configuration are studied in detail. ► A new representation of the qutrit wavefunction is proposed. ► Atom-field entanglement and population inversion are described. ► Collapse and revival times for the cascade system are calculated.