Relativistic Stern-Gerlach Deflection

TL;DR

This paper develops a relativistically covariant formalism for Stern-Gerlach deflection of polarized relativistic beams, proposing experimental setups to measure tiny deflections and advancing precision in beam control.

Contribution

It introduces a covariant S-G formalism respecting electric-magnetic field inversion, and details experimental methods for detecting relativistic beam deflections.

Findings

Formalism respects electric-magnetic field inversion symmetry

Proposes experimental configurations with polarized electron beams

Discusses methods to detect extremely small deflections

Abstract

Modern advances in polarized beam control should make it possible to accurately measure Stern-Gerlach (S-G) deflection of relativistic beams. Toward this end a relativistically covariant S-G formalism is developed that respects the opposite behavior under inversion of electric and magnetic fields. Not at all radical, or even new, this introduces a distinction between electric and magnetic fields that is not otherwise present in pure Maxwell theory. Experimental configurations (mainly using polarized electron beams passing through magnetic or electric quadrupoles) are described. Electron beam preparation and experimental methods needed to detect the extremely small deflections are discussed.