Interference-assisted resonant detection of axions

TL;DR

This paper proposes an interference-assisted resonant detection method for axions, enhancing sensitivity by leveraging interference effects between axion-induced and electromagnetic transition amplitudes in LSW experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel detection scheme that utilizes interference effects to improve axion detection sensitivity in light-shining-through-a-wall experiments.

Findings

Interference can make the axion detection signal first order in the axion-electron interaction.

Resonant atomic or molecular transitions can be used to detect axions more effectively.

The method offers a new pathway for axion searches beyond traditional conversion-based schemes.

Abstract

Detection schemes for the quantum chromodynamics axions and other axion-like particles in light-shining-through-a-wall (LSW) experiments are based on the conversion of these particles into photons in a magnetic field. An alternative scheme may involve the detection via a resonant atomic or molecular transition induced by resonant axion absorption. The signal obtained in this process is second order in the axion-electron interaction constant but may become first order if we allow interference between the axion-induced transition amplitude and the transition amplitude induced by the electromagnetic radiation that produces the axions.