Abstract.
Using optical dipole forces we have realized controlled transport of a single or any desired small number of neutral atoms over a distance of a centimeter with sub-micrometer precision. A standing wave dipole trap is loaded with a prescribed number of cesium atoms from a magneto-optical trap. Mutual detuning of the counter-propagating laser beams moves the interference pattern, allowing us to accelerate and stop the atoms at preselected points along the standing wave. The transportation efficiency is close to 100%. This optical ‘single-atom conveyor belt’ represents a versatile tool for future experiments requiring deterministic delivery of a prescribed number of atoms on demand.
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Received: 6 July 2001 / Published online: 23 November 2001
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Schrader, D., Kuhr, S., Alt, W. et al. An optical conveyor belt for single neutral atoms. Appl Phys B 73, 819–824 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003400100722
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003400100722