Geometric optics with atomic beams scattered by a detuned standing laser wave

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical and numerical study of atomic beam manipulation using a detuned standing laser wave, revealing new effects like chaotic scattering and potential applications in atomic control.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analysis of atomic beam dynamics in a standing wave, including chaotic scattering phenomena and methods for beam focusing, splitting, and scattering.

Findings

Demonstrated control of atomic motion via laser detuning

Discovered chaotic scattering of atoms at near-resonant standing waves

Discussed potential applications in atomic beam manipulation

Abstract

We report on theoretical and numerical study of propagation of atomic beams crossing a detuned standing-wave laser beam in the geometric optics limit. The interplay between external and internal atomic degrees of freedom is used to manipulate the atomic motion along the optical axis by light. By adjusting the atom-laser detuning, we demonstrate how to focus, split and scatter atomic beams in a real experiment. The novel effect of chaotic scattering of atoms at a regular near-resonant standing wave is found numerically and explained qualitatively. Some applications of the effects found are discussed.