Digitization of 93.3-keV recoilless $\gamma$-radiation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a method to convert 93.3 keV recoilless gamma radiation into controllable pulse sequences using resonant absorption and source movement, enabling advanced gamma-ray applications.

Contribution

A novel technique for generating programmable gamma-ray pulse sequences from M"ossbauer sources via resonant absorption and mechanical modulation.

Findings

Pulse sequences can be precisely controlled in timing and shape.

The method enables new gamma-ray quantum optics experiments.

Potential applications in advanced spectroscopy and information processing.

Abstract

We propose a technique for transforming the intensity of quasi-monochromatic recoilless radiation with a photon energy of 93.3 keV, emitted by radioactive M\"ossbauer sources 67Ga or 67Cu, into a sequence of short pulses with individually and independently controlled, on demand, the moments of appearance of pulses, as well as the peak intensity, duration and shape of each pulse. The technique is based on the transmission of recoilless (M\"ossbauer) 93.3-keV photons from the source through a medium containing resonantly absorbing 67Zn nuclei. The pulses are formed due to the rapid reciprocating movement of the source relative to the absorber at specified moments in time along the direction of photon propagation at a distance not exceeding half the radiation wavelength. The produced sequences of $\gamma$-ray pulses are similar to the digitization of information carried by electromagnetic waves. They can also be used to develop M\"ossbauer spectroscopy of the atomic and subatomic structures, as well as open novel opportunities for $\gamma$-ray quantum optics.