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Measuring finite-range phase coherence in an optical lattice using Talbot interferometry
Bodhaditya Santra1, Christian Baals1,2, Ralf Labouvie1,2
1Department of Physics and Research Center OPTIMAS, Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, Erwin-Schrödinger-Strasse, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany.
Nature Communications
|June 6, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed a new near-field interferometer using the Talbot effect to measure phase coherence in ultracold atoms. This technique is broadly applicable to lattice experiments for studying quantum phenomena.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Atomic physics
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- Controlling quantum coherence is crucial for systems like superconducting qubits and atomic networks.
- Atom interferometry is a key technique for exploring quantum coherence.
- Ultracold atoms in optical lattices provide a versatile platform for studying quantum phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel near-field interferometer for measuring phase coherence.
- To apply this interferometer to study coherence build-up in Bose-Einstein condensates.
- To develop a generic and adaptable technique for coherence measurements.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the Talbot effect to create a near-field interferometer.
- Employing ultracold atoms in a one-dimensional optical lattice.
- Inducing a quantum quench to observe coherence dynamics.
Main Results:
- Successfully measured finite-range phase coherence of ultracold atoms.
- Observed the build-up of phase coherence after a quantum quench.
- Demonstrated the interferometer's effectiveness in a Bose-Einstein condensate.
Conclusions:
- The developed Talbot effect interferometer is a powerful tool for measuring finite-range phase coherence.
- The technique is generic, easily adoptable, and applicable to various optical lattice experiments.
- This method advances the study of coherence in quantum systems.
