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Atomic and Optical Physics I - Part 3: Atom-Light Interactions 1 - Matrix elements and quantized field (edX)

Offered by MIT, MITx,
Atomic and Optical Physics I - Part 3: Atom-Light Interactions 1 - Matrix elements and quantized field (edX)

Third part of a course in modern atomic and optical physics: the physics of interactions of atoms with an electromagnetic field.

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This is the third of five modules to introduce concepts and current frontiers of atomic physics and to prepare you for cutting-edge research:

The third module, 8.421.3x, covers how atoms interact with light. First, dipole and higher order couplings are introduced, and concrete examples for selection rules and matrix elements are given. After quantizing the electromagnetic field and introducing photons, the Jaynes-Cummings model and vacuum Rabi oscillations are presented. Coherent and incoherent time evolution are discussed, also in the framework of Einstein's A and B coefficients.
At MIT, the content of the five modules makes the first of a two-semester sequence (8.421 and 8.422) for graduate students interested in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics. This sequence is required for Ph.D. students doing research in this field.
In these modules you will learn about the interaction of radiation with atoms: resonance; absorption, stimulated and spontaneous emission; methods of resonance, dressed atom formalism, masers and lasers, cavity quantum electrodynamics; structure of simple atoms, behavior in very strong fields; fundamental tests: time reversal, parity violations, Bell's inequalities; and experimental methods.
Completing the two-course sequence allows you to pursue advanced study and research in cold atoms, as well as specialized topics in condensed matter physics.
What you'll learn:
Physics of interactions of atoms with an electromagnetic field, including:

  • spontaneous and stimulated emission
  • quantization of the radiation field
  • absorption and emission
  • line strengths
  • excitation by narrow and broadband light sources
  • selection rules
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