Observation of stochastic resonance in directed propagation of cold atoms

Randomly diffusing atoms confined in a dissipative optical lattice are illuminated by a weak probe of light. The probe transmission spectrum reveals directed atomic propagation that occurs perpendicular to the direction of probe beam propagation. Resonant enhancement of this directed propagation is observed as we vary the random photon scattering rate. We experimentally characterize this stochastic resonance as a function of probe intensity and lattice well depth. A simple model reveals how the probe-excited atomic density waves and optical pumping rates conspire to create directed atomic propagation within a randomly diffusing sample.

Automated summary

The study focuses on randomly diffusing atoms confined in a dissipative optical lattice and illuminated by a weak probe of light. It reveals directed atomic propagation perpendicular to the direction of probe beam propagation and observes resonant enhancement of this propagation by varying the random photon scattering rate. The stochastic resonance is experimentally characterized as a function of probe intensity and lattice well depth. A simple model explains the directed atomic propagation within the randomly diffusing sample by considering the probe-excited atomic density waves and optical pumping rates.