Two Step Excitation in Hot Atomic Sodium Vapor.

Area of Science:

• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Optics

Background:

• Investigates a two-step excitation scheme in hot atomic sodium vapor.
• Focuses on the coupling between 3²S, 3²P, and 3²D states.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally investigate a two-step excitation scheme for Rydberg excitation and quantum light storage.
• To analyze the relative dependence on detuning of two lasers (589 nm and 819 nm).

Main Methods:

• Experimental investigation of atomic sodium vapor excitation.
• Utilized two lasers with specific wavelengths (589 nm and 819 nm).
• Measurements included electric fields and emission spectrum analysis.

Main Results:

• Observed unexpected higher detuning dependence (approx. three times) for the probe and coupling lasers.
• Demonstrated a potential two-photon transition to Rydberg P states, circumventing laser frequency doubling.
• Excluded P-P two-photon transition excitation.

Conclusions:

• The study provides insights into laser-atom interactions and excitation schemes.
• Findings contribute to advancements in quantum light storage and Rydberg state manipulation.
• The observed detuning dependence offers new parameters for controlling atomic excitation processes.