Optimizing photoassociation signals in small magneto-optical traps and evaporative cooling schemes for shallow optical dipole traps

This thesis presents work done on two projects that contribute to the study of ultracold atoms in the QDG lab. First, we present a study of the dependence of photoassociation on the trap parameters of a magneto-optical trap. Photoassociation spectroscopy of ultracold atoms has emerged as a powerful tool to measure the energetic and scattering properties of atoms and molecules. The photoassociation process is seen to be strongly affected by the intensity of the cooling laser as well as its detuning. Potential mechanisms, with emphasis on optical shielding by the trapping lasers, are presented that account for these observations. Considerations presented therein should guide the enhancement of photoassociation signals in atomic species that have constraints on trap sizes. We then present the development of a direct simulation Monte Carlo approach to model evaporative cooling in an optical dipole trap. Simple proof-of-principle results are presented to showcase its utility. Potentially useful applications are outlined for future experiments in our lab.Science, Faculty ofPhysics and Astronomy, Department ofGraduat