# Mesoscopic coherence in light scattering from cold, optically dense and disordered atomic systems

## TL;DR

This paper reviews the theoretical understanding of mesoscopic coherence effects in light scattering from cold, dense, disordered atomic systems, highlighting experimental explorations and challenges in high-density regimes.

## Contribution

It develops theoretical tools to analyze coherent light scattering phenomena in dense atomic gases, connecting them with experimental observations and discussing high-density challenges.

## Key findings

- Coherent backscattering effect analyzed
- Insights into random lasing in atomic gases
- Discussion on light trapping and quantum memories

## Abstract

Coherent effects manifested in light scattering from cold, optically dense and disordered atomic systems are reviewed from a primarily theoretical point of view. Development of the basic theoretical tools is then elaborated through several physical atomic physics based processes which have been at least partly explored experimentally. These include illustrations drawn from the coherent backscattering effect, random lasing in atomic gases, quantum memories and light-atoms interface assisted by the light trapping mechanism. Current understanding and challenges associated with the transition to high atomic densities and cooperativity in the scattering process is also discussed in some detail.