Science / Technology - Colloquium
Monday, May 1, 2006
4:00 PM-5:00 PM
Olin Hall
107
Abstract: Recent work with bosonic atoms at ultra-low temperatures in an optical lattice has opened new avenues for exploring the superfluid and Mott-insulating phases of bosons. The presence of the (usually harmonic) confining trap in the experimental set-up is likely to cause complications that are either a nuisance or a boon, depending on one's perspective.
Adopting the latter state of mind, we can see how, when properly designed, these experiments might create novel spatially-inhomogeneous phases. I will describe some recent work on the Mott-insulating and superfluid regions present in these systems. The stability of the Mott phases is an important consideration. I will describe a proposed experiment for spatially resolving the spatial structure of the system and some unique physics associated with the superfluid regions.
Cost: free
Sponsored by: WPI Physics Department, Dr. Rafael Garcia
Suggested Audiences: College
E-mail:
garcia@wpi.edu
Phone: 508-831-5342
Last Modified: April 24, 2006 at 9:54 AM
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