Abstract

Quantum-logic techniques used to manipulate quantum systems are now increasingly being applied to molecules. Previous experiments on single trapped diatomic species have enabled state detection with excellent fidelities and highly precise spectroscopic measurements. However, for complex molecules with a dense energy-level structure improved methods are necessary. Here, we demonstrate an enhanced quantum protocol for molecular state detection using state-dependent forces. Our approach is based on interfering a reference and a signal force applied to a single atomic and molecular ion. By changing the relative phase of the forces, we identify states embedded in a dense molecular energy-level structure and monitor state-to-state inelastic scattering processes. This method can also be used to exclude a large number of states in a single measurement when the initial state preparation is imperfect and information on the molecular properties is incomplete. While the present experiments focus on N{}_{2}^{+}, the method is general and is expected to be of particular benefit for polyatomic systems.

Highlights

  • Quantum-logic techniques used to manipulate quantum systems are increasingly being applied to molecules

  • The ions are superimposed with a running-wave optical lattice generated by two overlapping linearly polarized counterpropagating laser beams with frequency difference Δf

  • The lattice induces a modulated ac-Stark shift on the ions which results in a state-dependent optical-dipole force (ODF) oscillating at the frequency Δf

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Summary

Introduction

Quantum-logic techniques used to manipulate quantum systems are increasingly being applied to molecules. An Nþ2 ion in the N′′ = 6, J′′ = 11/2 spin–rotational state underwent a quantum-jump to a different rotational state as can be seen by the change in the amplitude and phase of the Rabi-oscillation signal.

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