Doppler-tuned multiphoton resonances in an atom reflection by a standing evanescent wave

Abstract

We analyze the condition of observation of Doppler-tuned multiphotonic (‘‘doppleron’’) resonances in an atom reflection by a standing evanescent wave. A theoretical model based on Ehrenfest’s theorem for external atomic motion is proposed. The light forces exerted by the stationary evanescent wave are calculated either with a perturbation approach, or with a continuous-fraction method. The appearance of the multiphotonic lines in the specularly reflected atomic beam is clearly shown. These predictions are in good agreement with previous and present experimental results, which are discussed.