Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 22, 2025

Gradient Echo Quantum Memory in Warm Atomic Vapor
Published on: November 11, 2013
Optical Control of a Single Nuclear Spin in the Solid State
M L Goldman1, T L Patti1, D Levonian1
1Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
Abstract:
We demonstrate a novel method for coherent optical manipulation of individual nuclear spins in the solid state, mediated by the electronic states of a proximal quantum emitter. Specifically, using the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color center in diamond, we demonstrate control of a proximal ^{14}N nuclear spin via an all-optical Raman technique. We evaluate the extent to which the intrinsic physical properties of the NV center limit the performance of coherent control, and we find that it is ultimately constrained by the relative rates of transverse hyperfine coupling and radiative decay in the NV center's excited state. Possible extensions and applications to other color centers are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Atomic Nuclei: Nuclear Spin State Overview
Atomic Nuclei: Nuclear Relaxation Processes
Atomic Nuclei: Nuclear Spin
Atomic nuclei have a net nuclear spin, , which can have an integer or half-integer value. In atomic nuclei, the spins of protons are paired against each other but not with neutrons, and vice versa. Consequently, an even number of protons does not contribute to...
Atomic Nuclei: Magnetic Resonance
Atomic Nuclei: Nuclear Spin State Population Distribution
Nuclear Overhauser Enhancement (NOE)

