Mobile atom traps using magnetic nanowires

By solving the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation using a finite element method we show that an atom trap can be produced above a ferromagnetic nanowire domain wall. Atoms experience trap frequencies of up to a few megahertz, and can be transported by applying a weak magnetic field along the wire. Lithographically defined nanowire patterns could allow quantum information processing by bringing domain walls in close proximity at certain places to allow trapped atom interactions and far apart at others to allow individual addressing. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.