Velocity-tuned resonances in the diffraction of atoms by an evanescent field

Abstract

The diffracted intensities of sodium atoms by a standing evanescent light wave near the three-Doppleron resonance are calculated using a multislice technique. This calculation predicts a sharp dip in the reflected intensity of the specular beam for a detuning slightly below resonance. Such phenomena have been observed experimentally and can be understood using the dressed-state picture. © 1994 The American Physical Society.