SGER: Trapping of Atomic Hydrogen Isotopes

University Of Texas At Austin, Austin TX

Investigators

Abstract

The study of ultracold atoms and molecules, and their interactions is one of the most active areas of physics research. However, these studies have been limited by the techniques used to cool the atoms and molecules. This SGER project will develop a new method for slowing paramagnetic atoms and molecules using rapidly switched pulsed magnetic fields. The specific goal of this project is to slow and stop beams of atomic hydrogen and deuterium ad to trap them in a magnetic quadrupole trap. Initial optimization of the experiment will be done with metastable neon, which is easier to detect. The broader impact of this work is the development of a magnetic slower that will enable trapping of any paramagnetic atom or molecule. The research project will directly support two graduate students. Additional undergraduate students will work on the project.