Molecular State Readout via Strong Optical Fields
Abstract
We propose a program to realize a new, general method for non-destructive state readout of trapped polyatomic molecular ions. The method works by exposing the molecular ions to strong, spatially varying, far off-resonant pulsed optical fields. These strong optical fields apply large forces to the molecule; in the common case where the molecule in question has an anisotropic polarizability, this force is state-dependent and thus realizes robust molecular state readout. The method will enable a broad range of new experiments, with applications in quantum information, precision measurement, and ultrasensitive chemical analysis. A successful demonstration of the method would represent the first preparation of a single polyatomic molecule in a single quantum state.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 20, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910338
Entities
People
- David Patterson
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of California, Santa Barbara