Matter Optics with Intense Laser Light

University Of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln NE

Investigators

Abstract

This research focuses on matter optics, or the manipulation of matter waves in ways analogous to the manipulation of light waves with optical elements. In particular, coherent matter wave beam splitters and interferometers made with intense light fields are considered. The short deBroglie wavelengths of matter waves allow ultimate sensitivities for diffractive and interferometric experiments that far exceed their optical analogues. Apart from this practical aspect, matter interferometry is typically used as a testing ground for the foundations of physics. The novel focus of this proposal is on the manipulation of electron and ion matter waves with intense laser light and state-of-the-art nano-fabricated gratings. The broader impact of the program involves interactive teaching techniques and undergraduate laboratory development.