Torsional Control of Molecules in Dissipative Media

Benjamin Ashwell*

Chemistry

The ability to coherently control torsional motion in molecules presents many exciting opportunities in optics, molecular electronics, catalysis, and chemical control. This has begun to be studied in isolated molecules, but the vast majority of potential applications will be in dissipative media. The role of dissipative media in torsional control has not been explored yet, and so is an obstacle to effective use of the tool. Torsional coherences, and their interaction with dissipative media, are also topics of considerable fundamental interest. Using the multi-level Bloch equation we have simulated the torsional dynamics of several molecules in a variety of solvents. We have investigated the role of laser intensity, pulse width, and temperature in determining the dynamics of the system. Our results have allowed us to design a system well suited for experimental realization of torsional control, and to better understand the nature of the coherences that drive the torsional motion.

*Sai Ramakrishna, Tamar Seideman

Current Progress Towards Superimposed Condensates

Jonathan Trossman

Physics & Astronomy

We are currently working towards creating a Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) of Rubidium atoms. We are looking to create a superposition of the two hyperfine states in the ground state. Magneto optical traps (A kind of trap that also cools atoms), BEC's, and Rabi oscillations will be discussed. We currently have a MOT of Rubidium, either isotope 85 or 87, that contains about 10^8 atoms at 105 microK, at peak density of about 10^9 atoms per cm^3, and future plans will be addressed.

Wednesday, January 18th at Noon

Room F235, Technological Institute