Heidelberg 1999 – scientific programme

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Q: Quantenoptik

Q 14: Optische Technik II

Q 14.4: Fachvortrag

Monday, March 15, 1999, 17:30–18:00, AM3

Single molecules as local probes for the electromagnetic field — •Vahid Sandoghdar — Optik-Zentrum Konstanz und Fakult"at f"ur Physik, Universit"at Konstanz, D-78457 Konstanz, http://quantum-optics.physik.uni-konstanz.de

Traditionally the interaction of light and matter has been studied using ensembles of particles. This requires an averaging process if the spatial extension of the ensemble becomes comparable with the intensity variations in an inhomogeneous field, as it is often the case. We propose the use of single molecules embedded in a microscopic solid matrix as well localized probes for the electromagnetic field. In order to achieve this, we have combined the techniques of scanning probe microscopy with the high resolution spectroscopy of single molecules at liquid helium temperature. In this manner we can position a single molecule with nanometric precision and exploit its narrow resonance of the order of 50MHz to achieve an exquisite combination of spatial and spectral sensitivity for studying its interaction with the surrounding electromagnetic field. In particular, we will discuss our recent theoretical and experimental results concerning the modification of the radiative properties of a single molecule in the immediate vicinity of a surface.