Dynamical control of matter wave splitting using time-dependent optical lattices

Abstract: We report on measurements of splitting Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC) by using a time-dependent optical lattice potential. First, we demonstrate the division of a BEC into a set of equally populated components by means of time dependent control of Landau-Zener tunneling in a vertical lattice potential. Next, we apply time dependent optical Bragg mirrors to a BEC oscillating in a harmonic trap. We demonstrate high-order Bragg reflection of the condensate due to multi-photon Raman transitions, where the depth of the optical lattice potential allows for a choice of the order of the transition. Finally, a combination of multiple Bragg reflections and Landau-Zener tunneling allows for the generation of macroscopic arrays of condensates with potential applications in atom optics and atom interferometry.