The Physics of Spin Polarized Atomic Vapors
Abstract
Our research efforts were focussed on the study of spin polarized atoms, nuclei and electrons during the period covered by this report. Although this work is 6.1 basic research, it has applications to a number of important Air Force problems. For example, the atomic clocks used on the GPS satellite system operate with optically pumped rubidium absorption cells, very similar to the ones being investigated in our laboratory. A number of the scientists and engineers working on atomic clocks used by Air Force satellite systems were trained with the support of this grant. We have participated in recent Air Force advisory panels to review concepts for high-energy-density fuels based on spin polarized atoms and molecules. The insights we have gained from research sponsored by this grant have been very useful to us in evaluating these ideas. Our recent work has focussed on two main areas, the investigation of quadrupolar interactions between spin polarized noble gas nuclei and surfaces and the quantitative investigation of how magnetic field inhomogeneities cause spin relaxation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 26, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA199990
Entities
People
- William Happer
Organizations
- Princeton University