Spin-sensitive atom mirror via spin-orbit interaction

TL;DR

This paper proposes a method to create a spin-dependent atom mirror using spin-orbit coupling in cold-atom gases, enabling spin filtering or polarization of atomic beams.

Contribution

It introduces a novel scheme for spin-dependent scattering of cold atoms using optical potentials with spin-orbit interaction, advancing control over atomic spin states.

Findings

System can act as a spin polarizer or atom mirror

Operates within specific optical and atomic parameters

Provides a new approach for spin control in cold atoms

Abstract

Based on the spin-orbit coupling recently implemented in a neutral cold-atom gas, we propose a scheme to realize spin-dependent scattering of cold atoms. In particular we consider a matter wave packet of cold-atom gas impinging upon a step potential created by the optical light field, inside of which the atoms are subject to spin-orbit interaction. We show that the proposed system can act as a spin polarizer or spin-selective atom mirror for the incident atomic beam. The principle and the operating parameter regime of the system are carefully discussed.