Specular reflection of polar molecules from a simple multi-cylinder electrostatic mirror: a method for separating BaF molecules produced in a buffer-gas-cooled laser-ablation source from other ablation products
Abstract
A method for specular reflection of polar molecules is proposed. Electrostatatic potentials and forces are calculated for a low-field-seeking molecule near a series of long cylindrical electrodes of radius r with dc potentials of +V and -V applied to alternate electrodes. A center-to-center separation of 2.9\,r leads to remarkably flat equipotential surfaces and thus to a nearly planar mirror for specular reflection of the polar molecules, with the angle of reflection equalling the angle of incidence to an accuracy approaching a microradian. This mirror can be used to redirect cryogenic molecular beams. Separating barium monofluoride (BaF) molecules created in a helium-buffer-gas laser-ablation source from other ablation products is a necessary step to producing a pure sample of matrix-isolated BaF, as is required by the EDM3 collaboration for implementing a precise measurement of the electron electric dipole moment. The design and modelling for the BaF deflector based on this electrode geometry is presented.
Turn this paper into a full lesson
ArcXiv compiles a staged curriculum from this paper: 8-12 lessons across beginner → advanced, synthesised section guides, visuals, flashcards, a quiz, exercises, and on-demand deep dives per section. Grounded in the abstract, never invented.