Abstract
The light scattered by cold atoms induces mutual optical forces between them, which can lead to bound states. In addition to the trapping potential, this light-induced interaction generates a velocity-dependent force which damps or amplifies the stretching vibrational mode of the two-atom ``molecule.'' This velocity-dependent force acts on time scales much longer than the mode period or the dipole dynamics, determining the true stability of the bound state. We show that, for two atoms, the stochastic heating due to spontaneous emission always exceeds the bounding effect, so pairs of cold atoms cannot be truly stable without an extra cooling mechanism.
Published Version (Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.