Preparation and detection of states with simultaneous spin alignment and molecular orientation in PbO

TL;DR

This paper reports on experiments to prepare and detect quantum states in PbO molecules with both molecular orientation and spin alignment, advancing techniques for measuring the electron's electric dipole moment.

Contribution

It introduces methods for creating and detecting states with simultaneous molecular orientation and spin alignment in PbO, highlighting their features and limitations.

Findings

Achieved preparation of states with combined orientation and spin alignment

Developed detection techniques for spin evolution within these states

Discussed potential improvements for measurement efficiency

Abstract

We are pursuing an experiment to measure the electric dipole moment of the electron using the molecule PbO. This measurement requires the ability to prepare quantum states with orientation of the molecular axis and, simultaneously, alignment of the electron spin perpendicular to this axis. It also requires efficient detection of the evolution of the spin alignment direction within such a state. We describe a series of experiments that have achieved these goals, and the features and limitations of the techniques. We also discuss possible new approaches for improved efficiency in this and similar systems.