A Laser Trap for Neutral Atoms.
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to construct and study a laser trap for neutral atoms, initially potassium (K). At low densities, such a trap could be used to address a number of fundamental questions, e.g. the interaction of an individual atom with an electromagnetic field, collision dynamics and recombination. We have studied the feasibility and imitations of a purely laser trap concept, a 'corner cube trap', for trapping neutral K atoms. The confinement of the atoms in the two dimensions perpendicular to the laser is provided in the cavity of a newly constructed high power alexandrite laser operating in the CW TEM*01 mode ('doughnut mode') tuned slightly to the blue side of the resonance line of the K atom. By reflecting the TEM*01 laser back on itself with two mirrors, one 'caps' the ends of the cylindrical trap, resulting in a slightly weaker end plug. Keywords: Laser trap, Neutral atom trap, Multiphoton ionization, Atomic recombination. (MJM)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA202581
Entities
People
- William C. Stwalley
Organizations
- University of Iowa