Quantum atom optics with Bose-Einstein condensate atoms

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In this research project, we have studied the atom optics using ultra cold atoms and Bose-Einstein condensate atoms. First we have developed a versatile BEC machine based on an atom chip technology. Using this apparatus, we can realize a fast production of 87Rb BEC atoms within 3 s. Next we have studied the atom interferometer using BEC atoms on an atom chip. We have realized a long coherence time of up to 50 ms with a high interference fringe contrast of about 30%. We have also studied BEC atoms in pulsed optical standing wave potential, so called an atom optics quantum kicked rotor system. Using this system, we have realized a rectified momentum transport for a kicked BEC atoms. We found that the observed directed transport of atoms is caused by the quantum mechanical interference of matter waves. In order to study the quantum atom optics, we have developed an experimental apparatus for the manipulation of a single atom. We could trap a single Rb atom in an optical dipole trap for more than 1 s. We also demonstrated the excitation of trapped Rb atoms to the highly excited Rydberg state to enhance the atom-atom interaction. Using these methods, we will be able to realize a quantum mechanical correlation between atoms or an entangled state of atoms.