Complete quantum state selectivity in cold molecular beams using deflection-resistant dark states in a STIRAP configuration

摘要

One of the main goals of chemical dynamics is the creation of molecular beamscomposed of a single (vibrational, rotational, and magnetic) quantum state ofchoice. In this paper we show that it is possible to achieve {\it complete}quantum state selectivity by producing resistance to electromagneticallyinduced deflection (EID) and that the state to be selected can be "dialed in"at will. We illustrate the method by showing in detail how to purify thermalbeams of the LiRb and IF molecules to yield molecular beams composed of avariety of pre-chosen single internal quantum states and/or superpositions ofsuch states. We expect that this method will be implemented in all subsequentexplorations of the fundamentals of chemical reactions and their control, andthe use of cold molecules as a vehicle for studying some of the most profoundissues of quantum dynamics.