Probing the classical/quantal boundary using the Stark effect

Author

Joseph Frederick Baugh

Abstract

"The boundary between classical physics and quantum physics is examined using the Stark effect on sodium atoms in a constant electric field. Coherent states composed of linear superpositions of the hydrogenic stationary states are created by applying a low amplitude, ~5 V/cm, nanosecond electric field pulse. The pulse periodically drives the atoms to a realm where many stationary states lie within a very narrow energy range. These coherent superpositions exhibit localized electronic probability densities and therefore qualify as wave packets, time-dependent states for which constructive and destructive interference leads to a localized, moving probability density. Using a cw laser these wave packet states are excited and their attributes are probed in the frequency domain rather than the time domain. Computer simulations are used to show how coherent linear combinations of hydrogenic basis states emulate the orbital motion of a classical particle"--Abstract, page iii.

Advisor(s)

Leventhal, Jacob J. (Jacob Joseph), 1937-

Committee Member(s)

Cheng, Ta-Pei
Olson, Ronald E.
DuBois, R. D. (Robert D.), 1951
Harris, Harold H.
Peacher, Jerry
George, Thomas F., 1947-

Department(s)

Physics

Degree Name

Ph. D. in Physics

Publisher

University of Missouri--Rolla

Publication Date

2003

Pagination

vii, 84 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references (pages 81-83).

Rights

© 2003 Joseph Frederick Baugh, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Dissertation - Citation

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

PhysicsQuantum theoryStark effect

Thesis Number

T 8368

Print OCLC #

56558213

Recommended Citation

Baugh, Joseph Frederick, "Probing the classical/quantal boundary using the Stark effect" (2003). Doctoral Dissertations. 64.
https://scholarsmine.mst.edu/doctoral_dissertations/64