Magneto-optical trap and its application to ultra-cold atom collision studies

Date
1994
Authors
Xiao, Yanyang
Journal Title
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Abstract

We have successfully trapped \sp7Li in a vapor cell magneto-optical trap (MOT). The trap is studied in detail and the parameters are measured from the experiment. The trapping mechanism has been understood in terms of the radiation force and a simple one dimensional model is used in interpreting and predicting the experimental results. The cold-cold atom collision rate coefficient is measured in a beam MOT. The two collision mechanisms, fine structure changing and radiative escape, are discussed in a molecular picture. One of the channels, the fine structure changing channel, can be turned on and off by the experimental conditions, namely the laser intensity in this experiment. The rate coefficient for each mechanism has been determined from the experiment.

Description
Advisor
Hulet, Randall G.
Degree
Master of Arts
Type
Thesis
Keywords
Atomic physics, Optics, Physics, Electromagnetics
Citation

Xiao, Yanyang. "Magneto-optical trap and its application to ultra-cold atom collision studies." (1994) Master’s Thesis, Rice University. https://hdl.handle.net/1911/13918.

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