arXiv · 2105.00978
Quantum dynamics of a polar rotor acted upon by an electric rectangular pulse of variable duration
Abstract
As demonstrated in our previous work [J. Chem. Phys. 149, 174109 (2018)], the kinetic energy imparted to a quantum rotor by a non-resonant electromagnetic pulse with a Gaussian temporal profile exhibits quasi-periodic drops as a function of the pulse duration. Herein, we show that this behaviour can be reproduced with a simple waveform, namely a rectangular electric pulse of variable duration, and examine, both numerically and analytically, its causes. Our analysis reveals that the drops result from the oscillating populations that make up the wavepacket created by the pulse and that they are necessarily accompanied by drops in the orientation and by a restoration of the pre-pulse alignment of the rotor. Handy analytic formulae are derived that allow to predict the pulse durations leading to diminished kinetic energy transfer and orientation. Experimental scenarios are discussed where the phenomenon could be utilized or be detrimental.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Mallikarjun Karra, Bretislav Friedrich, Burkhard Schmidt. 2021-05-03. Quantum dynamics of a polar rotor acted upon by an electric rectangular pulse of variable duration. https://doi.org/10.1080/00268976.2021.1966111
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.