Abstract
The possibility of controlled direct laser-nuclear excitations is considered from a quantum control perspective. The controllability of laser-driven electric dipole and magnetic dipole transitions among pure nuclear states is analyzed. Within a set of realistic and general conditions, atomic nuclei are demonstrated to possess full state controllability. Additionally, an analysis of the nuclear state excitation probability as a function of the laser control field is conducted. This control landscape is shown to possess a generic topology, which has important physical consequences for achieving optimal nuclear state excitation with laser fields. Last, an assessment is given of the technological challenges that need to be considered when implementing direct nuclear control in the laboratory.
- Received 9 September 2011
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.84.053429
©2011 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Quantum Optics Moves into the Nucleus
Published 23 November 2011
According to theoretical work, the tricks for controlling atoms with lasers should extend naturally into probing the nucleus.
See more in Physics