Alternating gradient focusing and deceleration of polar molecules

Bethlem, H.L.; Tarbutt, M.R.; Kupper, J.; Carty, D.; Wohlfart, K.; Hinds, E.A.; Meijer, G.

Abstract

Beams of polar molecules can be focused using an array of electrostatic lenses in alternating gradient (AG) configuration. They can also be accelerated or decelerated by applying an appropriate high-voltage switching sequence to the lenses. AG focusing is applicable to molecules in both low-field- and high-field-seeking states and is particularly well suited to the problem of decelerating heavy molecules and those in their ground rotational state. We describe the principles of AG deceleration and set out criteria to be followed in decelerator design, construction and operation. We calculate the longitudinal and transverse focusing properties of a decelerator, and exemplify this by 2D-imaging studies of a decelerated beam of metastable CO molecules.

Citation

Bethlem, H., Tarbutt, M., Kupper, J., Carty, D., Wohlfart, K., Hinds, E., & Meijer, G. (2006). Alternating gradient focusing and deceleration of polar molecules. Journal of Physics B: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics, 39(16), R263-R291. https://doi.org/10.1088/0953-4075/39/16/r01

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Aug 1, 2006
• Deposit Date: May 7, 2008
• Journal: Journal of Physics B: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
• Print ISSN: 0953-4075
• Electronic ISSN: 1361-6455
• Publisher: IOP Publishing
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 39
• Issue: 16
• Pages: R263-R291
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1088/0953-4075/39/16/r01