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Diffusive-like redistribution in state-changing collisions between Rydberg atoms and ground state atoms.

Philipp Geppert1, Max Althön1, Daniel Fichtner1

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State-changing collisions between Rydberg atoms and ground state atoms were studied. Findings reveal population redistribution across many final states, challenging previous assumptions about collision outcomes.

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Area of Science:

  • Quantum Chemistry
  • Atomic Physics

Background:

  • Rydberg atoms are crucial in dense environments, influencing their lifetime and quantum states.
  • Understanding state-changing collisions is fundamental to quantum chemistry and atomic physics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate state-changing collisions between Rydberg atoms and ground state atoms.
  • Identify final states using high-resolution momentum spectroscopy.
  • Explore population redistribution beyond single hydrogenic manifolds.

Main Methods:

  • High-resolution momentum spectroscopy
  • Study of state-changing collisions
  • Modeling via Rydberg quasi-molecular complex

Main Results:

  • Observed population redistribution over a wide range of final states.
  • Demonstrated decay to states with different principal quantum numbers, even with conserved angular momentum.
  • Modeled the process using a short-lived Rydberg quasi-molecular complex with an oscillating electric field.

Conclusions:

  • Collision outcomes are not limited to a single hydrogenic manifold.
  • Rydberg atom collisions exhibit diffusive-like final state distributions.
  • Charge exchange in Rydberg quasi-molecules drives transitions within the Rydberg manifold.