Abstract
Recent progress in atom optics has culminated in several demonstrations of atom interferometers. These rely on the passage of atoms through mechanical or light gratings and may be roughly characterized as Mach–Zehnder interferometers. In this communication, we propose a scheme to realize a Fabry–Perot interferometer for atoms. The mirrors are realized by the field gradient resulting from the spatial mode structure in optical or microwave cavities. When ultra- cold atoms impinge on such cavities, they experience quantum mechanical reflection and transmission that result in the appearance of longitudinal modes for the atomic wave function. We present a model of such a Fabry–Perot interferometer for two-level atoms. We discuss the intra-cavity matter–wave mode structure as well as the transmittivity and reflectivity characteristics of the interferometer. The potential generation of macroscopic quantum waves using such a device, as well as its potential as a sensitive photon detector, will be addressed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
