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arXiv · 1111.6225

Optical repumping of triplet $P$-states enhances magneto-optical trapping of ytterbium atoms

Jun Woo Cho·Han-gyeol Lee·Sangkyung Lee·Jaewook Ahn·Won-Kyu Lee·Dai-Hyuk Yu·Sun Kyung Lee·Chang Yong Park
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Abstract

Radiative decay from the excited $^1P_1$ state to metastable $^3P_2$ and $^3P_0$ states is expected to limit attainable trapped atomic population in a magneto-optic trap of ytterbium (Yb) atoms. In experiments we have carried out with optical repumping of $^3P_{0,2}$ states to $^3P_1$, we observe enhancement of trapped atoms yield in the excited $^1P_1$ state. The individual decay rate to each metastable state is measured and the results show an excellent agreement with the theoretical values.

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Jun Woo Cho, Han-gyeol Lee, Sangkyung Lee, Jaewook Ahn, Won-Kyu Lee, Dai-Hyuk Yu, Sun Kyung Lee, Chang Yong Park. 2011-11-27. Optical repumping of triplet $P$-states enhances magneto-optical trapping of ytterbium atoms. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreva.85.035401

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