Cold molecules: theory, experiment, applications

The First Book on Ultracold Molecules Cold molecules offer intriguing properties on which new operational principles can be based (e.g., quantum computing) or that may allow researchers to study a qualitatively new behavior of matter (e.g., Bose-Einstein condensates structured by the electric dipole interaction). This interdisciplinary book discusses novel methods to create and confine molecules at temperatures near absolute zero (1 microKelvin to 1 Kelvin) and surveys the research done with and on cold molecules to date. It is evident that this research has irreversibly changed atomic, molecular, and optical physics and quantum information science. Its impact on condensed-matter physics, astrophysics, and physical chemistry is becoming apparent as well. This monograph provides seasoned researchers as well as students entering the field with a valuable companion, one which, in addition, will help to foster their identity within their institutions and the physics and chemistry communities at large.CREATION OF COLD POLAR MOLECULES: Cryogenic Cooling of Molecules. Slowing Molecular Beams to Standstill. Photoassociation of Ultracold Atoms. APPLICATIONS OF COLD POLAR MOLECULES: Quantum Computation with Cold Polar Molecules. External Field Control of Chemical Dynamics. Coherent Control of Ultracold Molecular Processes. Condensed-Matter Physics of Trapped Molecular Ensembles. Cold Polar Molecules and Models of High-Te Superconductivity. Cold Polar Molecules and Time-Reversal Symmetry. Cold Polar Molecules and Time-Variation of Fine Structure Constant