Asymmetric Field Photovoltaic Effect of Neutral Atoms

TL;DR

This paper theoretically investigates the photovoltaic effect in neutral atoms within a double-trap system driven by inhomogeneous light, revealing a new mechanism for atom current generation under asymmetric conditions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach using asymmetric external driving fields to induce photovoltaic effects in neutral atoms, expanding understanding beyond traditional charged particle systems.

Findings

Polarization of atom population induces net atom current.

The system operates under partially coherent light.

The model can be extended to other quantum particles.

Abstract

Photovoltaic effect of neutral atoms using inhomogeneous light in double-trap opened system is studied theoretically. Using asymmetric external driving field to replacing original asymmetric chemical potential of atoms, we create polarization of atom population in the double-trap system. The polarization of atom number distribution induces net current of atoms and works as collected carriers in the cell. The cell can work even under partially coherent light. The whole configuration is described by quantum master equation considering weak tunneling between the system and its reservoirs at finite temperature. The model of neutral atoms could be extended to more general quantum particles in principle.