Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Microwave Photonics Systems Based on Whispering-gallery-mode Resonators
Published on: August 5, 2013
Atom galleries for whispering atoms: binding atoms in stable orbits around an optical resonator
Abstract:
The external fields of optical whispering gallery modes may be used to confine atoms in stable orbits around a dielectric microsphere. As an example, a toroidal dipole-force trap (atom gallery) for three-level atoms is investigated, and the possibility of achieving an atomic (matter-wave) resonator is discussed. The extremely small electromagnetic mode volumes and high Q's of the whispering gallery modes should permit a circulating photon to be repeatedly absorbed and reemitted by a trapped whispering atom.
Related Concept Videos
Atomic Orbitals
Molecular Orbital Theory I
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Atomization Methods
MO Theory and Covalent Bonding
The Energies of Atomic Orbitals
The de Broglie Wavelength

