Spatially localized Rydberg atom wave packets

Abstract

The quantum theory of atoms is based on a Hamiltonian which is just that of the classical Kepler theory of planetary orbits. In spite of this common foundation, the predictions of the quantum theory ordinarily do not much resemble those of the classical theory. Even in the limit of large quantum numbers the energy eigenstates of quantum theory do not look at all like the classical elliptical orbits. Recently, Parker and Stroud1 showed that it is possible to excite a Rydberg atomic wave packet localized in the radial coordinate. Also, Yeazell and Stroud2 showed that a wave packet localized in the angular coordinates can be formed. Both wave packets exhibit an evolution describable, at least in part, by classical theory. However, neither wave packet truly corresponds to a wave packet traveling in a classical elliptical orbit. We discuss the manner in which such a wave packet might be formed using a short-pulsed laser and arf dressing field. The evolution of the resulting wave packet is compared with that of its classical counterpart.