Simultaneous Observation of Nonlinear Magneto-Optical Rotation in the Temporal and Spectral Domains with an Electro-Optic Frequency Comb

Abstract

Highly sensitive magnetic field measurements are desirable for medical diagnoses and imaging, as well as research in geomagnetism and fundamental physics. Atomic magnetometers measure the Larmor frequency of an alkali vapor, and their sensitivity depends on generating a high degree of ground-state coherence in the atomic population via optical pumping. This study uses an electro-optic frequency comb to probe a broad spectral region, yielding measurements of the Larmor frequency that are both temporally and spectrally resolved. The techniques developed here allow real-time analysis of the degree of polarization of the atomic ensemble, and the avenues by which this polarization is probed.