Physics
Quantum Hydroynamics—Atomic-Scale Behavior
Meets the Macroscopic World
Dr.Peter Engels’ research consists of experiments studying fundamental physics with ultracold atomic gases. When a cloud of atoms, trapped in an ultra-high vacuum chamber by magnetic forces, is cooled down to temperatures close to zero Kelvin, it starts behaving in a fascinating new way. Quantum mechanics, known as the theory that describes nature on the nanoscopic scale where individual atoms are discernable, then becomes accessible on a macroscopic scale. For example, when choosing an appropriate element and isotope, a Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) can be formed. In a BEC, millions of atoms start behaving like a single “superatom,” displaying wavelike behavior governed by the laws of quantum mechanics.
Dr. Engels’ experience with ultracold atoms comprises practical applications as well as fundamental studies. In his Ph.D. research, he used the emerging tools of laser cooling and atom optics to focus an atomic beam down to periodic nanostructures. By placing substrates coated with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) into such a patterned atomic beam, nanostructures with almost perfect periodicity can be created on the surface. This method complements existing tools of nanotechnology.
During the past few years, Dr. Engels has used advanced laser cooling and atom optics techniques to conduct fundamental research with Bose-Einstein Condensates. He studied vortex lattices in rotating BECs among the group of researchers working with Eric Cornell (JILA/University of Colorado). These systems show intriguing phenomena that can be compared to, or contrasted with, optical vortices in laser fields, magnetic flux lines in certain types of superconductors, aspects of quantum Hall systems, and with the vortex lattices that are believed to exist in neutron stars.
Since joining Washington State University in 2004, Dr. Engels has been focused on constructing the next generation of a machine that will allow him to continue fundamental studies near zero Kelvin, exploring vortices, solitons, and the peculiar world of superfluid hydrodynamics.
Contact Information
Peter Engels, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Physics
Washington State University
PO Box 642814
Pullman, WA 99164-2814
Telephone: 509-335-4674
E-mail: engels@wsu.edu
Physical and Computational Sciences
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Dr. Peter Engels, assistant professor in the Washington State University Department of Physics since 2004, received his Ph.D. in physics from the University of Hannover, Germany, in 2000. His dissertation in the field of atomlithography included elements of matter wave optics, lithography, nanotechnology, and surface chemistry. He was a visiting graduate student at Princeton University, researching processes involved in laser-controlled chemistry. From 2001-04, he conducted postdoctoral research, studying rotating Bose-Einstein condensates among the group of researchers working with Nobel prize winner Eric Cornell at JILA/University of Colorado. His work there resulted in a well-known series of publications on this subject. Dr. Engels has received scholarships from the “Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes” (German National Academic Foundation) as well as from the Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation. |
