Abstract
We report the observation of optomechanical strain applied to thermal and quantum degenerate Rb87 atomic clouds when illuminated by an intense, far detuned homogeneous laser beam. In this regime the atomic cloud acts as a lens that focuses the laser beam. As a backaction, the atoms experience a force opposite to the beam deflection, which depends on the atomic cloud density profile. We experimentally demonstrate the basic features of this force, distinguishing it from the well-established scattering and dipole forces. The observed strain saturates, ultimately limiting the momentum impulse that can be transferred to the atoms. This optomechanical force may effectively induce interparticle interactions, which can be optically tuned.
Errata: This paper was published online on 19 October 2017 with a typographical error in Eq. (1) .The equation has been corrected as of 23 October 2017. The equation is correct in the printed version of the journal.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Article number | 163201 |
Journal | Physical review letters |
Volume | 119 |
Issue number | 16 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 19 Oct 2017 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- General Physics and Astronomy