Magnetic Trapping and Coherent Control of Laser-Cooled Molecules

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Molecular physics
• Atomic, molecular, and optical physics

Background:

• Ultracold molecules offer unique platforms for fundamental physics research.
• Precise control over molecular quantum states is crucial for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate coherent microwave control of ultracold calcium fluoride (CaF) molecules.
• To achieve magnetic trapping of these molecules in a single, selectable quantum state.

Main Methods:

• Coherent microwave control of rotational, hyperfine, and Zeeman states.
• Magnetic trapping techniques for ultracold molecules.
• State-specific loss rate measurements.

Main Results:

• Successful coherent control of CaF molecule states.
• Magnetic trapping of approximately 5×10³ molecules in a single quantum state.
• Trapping duration of nearly 2 seconds at 70(8) μK and a density of 1.2×10⁵ cm⁻³.
• Measurement of state-specific collision loss rates with background helium.

Conclusions:

• Demonstrated unprecedented control over ultracold molecules.
• Established a method for preparing molecules in specific quantum states for future experiments.
• Opened new avenues for molecular quantum science and precision measurements.