Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate

Details Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate

2008-04-16

arxiv.org/abs/0804.2609v1

Physics

Condensed Matter

Disordered Systems and Neural Networks

5 pages

Scientific paper

10.1038/nature07071

One of the most intriguing phenomena in physics is the localization of waves in disordered media. This phenomenon was originally predicted by Anderson, fifty years ago, in the context of transport of electrons in crystals. Anderson localization is actually a much more general phenomenon, and it has been observed in a large variety of systems, including light waves. However, it has never been observed directly for matter waves. Ultracold atoms open a new scenario for the study of disorder-induced localization, due to high degree of control of most of the system parameters, including interaction. Here we employ for the first time a noninteracting Bose-Einstein condensate to study Anderson localization. The experiment is performed with a onedimensional quasi-periodic lattice, a system which features a crossover between extended and exponentially localized states as in the case of purely random disorder in higher dimensions. Localization is clearly demonstrated by investigating transport properties, spatial and momentum distributions. We characterize the crossover, finding that the critical disorder strength scales with the tunnelling energy of the atoms in the lattice. Since the interaction in the condensate can be controlled at will, this system might be employed to solve open questions on the interplay of disorder and interaction and to explore exotic quantum phases.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Anderson localization of a non-interacting Bose-Einstein condensate will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-607528