Temperature Dependence of Rb(2) Molecule Formation Rate Constant in a Magneto-Optical Trap

In this paper, we report the measurement of Rb(2) molecule formation rate constant due to a two body process in a magneto-optical trap as a function of the sample temperature. The ground state molecules are detected by two-photon ionization, through the intermediate a(3)Sigma(+)(u) -> 2(3)Pi(g) molecular band. Our results show that the Rb(2) molecules formed in the MOT could be due to a wave shape resonance, which enhances the molecule formation rate. This effect may be used to enhance the molecule production; and therefore it maybe important to future experiments involving production and trapping of cold ground state molecules.

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

FAPESP (Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Pauio)

CNPq

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)