Near-resonant light scattering by an atom in a state-dependent trap

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: There are an increasing number of experimental scenarios where near-resonant light is applied to atoms tightly trapped in far off-resonant optical fields, such as for quantum optics applications or for atom imaging. Oftentimes, the electronic ground and excited states involved in the optical transition experience unequal trapping potentials. Here, we systematically analyze the effects of unequal trapping on near-resonant atom–light interactions. In particular, we identify regimes where such trapping can lead to significant excess heating compared to atoms in state-independent potentials, and a reduction of total and elastic scattering cross sections associated with a decreased atom–photon interaction efficiency. Understanding these effects can be valuable for achieving maximum efficiency in quantum optics experiments or atom imaging setups, where efficient atom–light interactions on resonance are desired, but achieving equal trapping is not feasible.

Source: New Journal of Physics

DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/ad3775

Authors: T D Karanikolaou, R J Bettles, D E Chang

Institution: Institute of Photonic Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Cold Atom Physics and Bose-Einstein Condensates

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,485

Funders: Fundación Cellex, Centres de Recerca de Catalunya, Fundación Carmen y Severo Ochoa, European Commission, Generalitat de Catalunya, FUNDACIÓ Privada MIR-PUIG, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca, Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Direcció General de Recerca, Generalitat de Catalunya, H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

OpenAlex ID: W4393138908