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Observing the Einstein-de Haas effect with atoms in an optical lattice
Physical Review Letters
|November 13, 2007
Summary
Magnetization conservation is broken by dipolar interactions, leading to the Einstein-de Haas effect. This spin-to-spatial angular momentum transfer is observable in two 87Rb atoms, enhanced by modulated magnetic fields for precision measurements.
Area of Science:
- Atomic physics
- Quantum mechanics
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- Anisotropic dipolar interactions break magnetization conservation.
- The Einstein-de Haas effect demonstrates the conservation of total angular momentum.
- Recent studies explored this in atomic condensates.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify conditions for observing the Einstein-de Haas effect in a two-atom system.
- Investigate the role of dipolar interactions in angular momentum transfer.
- Explore potential applications in precision measurements.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical identification of the observation regime.
- Utilizing two 87Rb atoms in a single potential well.
- Employing a periodically modulated magnetic field.
Main Results:
- The Einstein-de Haas effect is observable in a two-atom system.
- A periodically modulated magnetic field facilitates observation and confirmation.
- Feeble dipolar interactions are sufficient for this phenomenon.
Conclusions:
- The two-atom system provides an accessible platform for studying angular momentum conservation.
- Modulated magnetic fields enhance the observability of the effect.
- This research opens avenues for precision measurement applications.
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