Atomic-Beam Deflection by Resonance-Radiation Pressure

Abstract

It is proposed to use the saturated value of the radiation pressure force on neutral atoms to produce a constant central force field to deflect atoms in circular orbits and make a high-resolution velocity analyzer. This is useful for studying the interaction of atoms with high-intensity monochromatic light, and to separate, velocity analyze, or trap neutral atoms of specific isotopic species or hyperfine level.