SciPost Thesis Link
| Title: | Coherence theory of atomic de Broglie waves and electromagnetic near fields | |
| Author: | Carsten Henkel | |
| As Contributor: | (not claimed) | |
| Type: | Habilitation | |
| Field: | Physics | |
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| Approach: | Theoretical | |
| URL: | http://opus.kobv.de/ubp/volltexte/2005/135/ | |
| Degree granting institution: | Universität Potsdam | |
| Supervisor(s): | Martin Wilkens | |
| Defense date: | 2004-05-28 |
Abstract:
We theoretically discuss the interaction of neutral particles (atoms, molecules) with surfaces in the regime where it is mediated by the electromagnetic field. A thorough characterization of the field at sub-wavelength distances is worked out, including energy density spectra and coherence functions. The results are applied to typical situations in integrated atom optics, where ultracold atoms are coupled to a thermal surface, and to single molecule probes in near field optics, where sub-wavelength resolution can be achieved. Key words: coherence theory, quantum optics, quantum electrodynamics (QED), atom optics, atom chip, spectroscopy, surface, near field optics, nano optics