Exotic quantum dark states

Abstract

We extend studies of velocity selective coherent population trapping to atoms having a J = 1! J = 0 transition. When placed in a two-dimensional laser eld these atoms are optically pumped into dierent velocity selective nonabsorbing states. Each of these distinct energy eigenstates exhibits a unique entanglement between its internal and external degrees of freedom. We use a graphical method that makes easier the description of these states. We conrm our predictions experimentally.