Two-Pathway Coherent Control of Optical Interactions

Purdue University, West Lafayette IN

Investigators

Abstract

This program focuses on a series of experimental investigations of methods and applications of a technique for controlling optical interactions in atomic systems by taking advantage of the coherence properties of these interactions. These Two-Pathway Coherent Control processes make use of an interference that occurs when optical interactions proceed via two distinct excitation routes in atomic, molecular, or condensed phase systems. This interference has been shown to result in an enhancement or inhibition of excitation probabilities, control of the direction of propagation of photoelectrons or photoions, and control over the branching ratios of photoionization or photodissociation into different continuum channels. The projects in the program include: 1) a series of measurements that will explore the role of autoionizing resonances on the phase of the interference; 2) development of a techniques for sensitive detection of weak optical transitions; and 3) detailed investigations of a robust form of interference that is insensitive to the phase of the laser field.