Dissipative binding of atoms by non-conservative forces

Area of Science:

• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Quantum Chemistry
• Condensed Matter Physics

Background:

• Traditional molecular formation relies on conservative forces (e.g., electromagnetic) leading to stable configurations at potential energy minima.
• Understanding bonding mechanisms is crucial for designing novel materials and controlling quantum systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate that bonding can occur via non-conservative forces, specifically interaction-induced coherent population trapping.
• To investigate the properties of these novel dissipative bound states, including their formation and characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical investigation of bonding mechanisms involving non-conservative forces.
• Analysis of dissipative processes leading to stationary states at specific interatomic distances.
• Consideration of systems with purely repulsive interatomic interactions.

Main Results:

• Identified a new bonding mechanism driven by non-conservative forces and dissipative processes.
• Demonstrated the formation of stable bound states even when interatomic interactions are repulsive.
• Showcased that these dissipative bound states manifest as stationary states at a defined interatomic distance.

Conclusions:

• Dissipative bonding represents a novel paradigm for molecular and supramolecular structure formation.
• These states are experimentally accessible using ultracold atoms or molecules and spectroscopic techniques.
• Potential applications include the cooling of strongly interacting quantum gases.