Semi-Automatic Retrieval of Temperature and |
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Density in a Magneto-Optical Trap Dan Mickelson K-State REU 2009 supervisor: Brett D. DePaola Research Group: MOTRIMS |
The MOTRIMS Magneto-Optical Trap
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Project: Photo-association of molecules can be studied by exciting atoms of Rubidium in a magneto-optical trap (MOT). The number of molecules formed depends on the number of atoms present and how often they interact--both of which are related to temperature and density. Knowing the initial temperature and density of a MOT will allow MOTRIMS to recreate the conditions that lead to the formation of the highest number of molecules. Currently, the MOTRIMS lab does not have a way of measuring the density or temperature of these atoms. I am working to design, construct, and test an apparatus that can measure both. |
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E-mail
me at: mickelso@phys.ksu.edu