Coherent dynamics in a five-level atomic system

The coherent control of multi-partite quantum systems presents one of the central prerequisites in state-of-the-art quantum information processing. With the added benefit of inherent high-fidelity detection capability, atomic quantum systems in high-energy internal states, such as metastable noble gas atoms, promote themselves as ideal candidates for advancing quantum science in fundamental aspects and technological applications. Using laser-cooled neon atoms in the metastable 3P2 state of state 1s22s22p53s (LS-coupling notation) (Racah notation: 2P3/23s[3/2]2) with five mJ-sublevels, experimental methods for the preparation of all Zeeman sublevels |mJ⟩ = |+2⟩, |+1⟩, |0⟩, |−1⟩, |−2⟩ as well as the coherent control of superposition states in the five-level system |+2⟩, ..., |−2⟩, in the three-level system |+2⟩, |+1⟩, |0⟩, and in the two-level system |+2⟩, |+1⟩ are presented. The methods are based on optimized radio frequency and laser pulse sequences. The state evolution is described with a simple, semiclassical model. The coherence properties of the prepared states are studied using Ramsey and spin echo measurements.