Speaker
Description
We review distinctive experimental techniques that rely on coherent scattering, precision metrology, and atom interferometry that have realized varied applications including precise measurements of atomic lifetimes, masses of dielectric particles, atomic diffusion, centre of mass velocity, and gravitational acceleration. We show that the two-pulse photon echo technique is capable of realizing the most precise determination of the Rb 5P3/2 excited state lifetime. We describe time domain techniques that track the motion of dielectric microparticles confined by free space optical tweezers and measure particle masses with a sensitivity of 10-16 kg. We detect the motion of Rb optical lattices in a buffer gas environment to obtain the most comprehensive measurements of atomic diffusion that can serve as the basis for a quantum pressure sensor capable of calibrating commercial pressure gauges. We outline a new generation of frequency domain and time domain techniques for the realization of state-of-the-art velocimeters that utilize laser cooled Rb atoms. Finally, we review recent results from a new generation of frequency domain echo atom interferometers that use ultracold Rb atoms channelled into an optical lattice to realize a gravimeter. A universal theme in all these experiments is the reliance on low cost, homebuilt, laser systems developed through industrial partnerships.
*Work supported by CFI, OIT, NSERC, OCE, The Helen Freedhoff Memorial Fund and York University
| Keyword-1 | Laser Cooling and Trapping |
|---|---|
| Keyword-2 | Atom Interferometry |
| Keyword-3 | Coherent Transient Effects |