Sub-wavelength resolution of optical fields probed by single trapped ions: Interference, phase modulation, and which-way information

Abstract

Taking recent experiments as examples, we discuss the conditions for sub-wavelength probing of optical field structures by single trapped atoms. We calculate the achievable resolution, highlighting its connection to the fringe visibility in an interference experiment. We show that seemingly different physical pictures, such as spatial averaging, phase modulation, and which-way information, describe the situation equally and lead to identical results. The connection to Bohr's moving slit experiment is pointed out.

6 pages, 1 figure; to appear in EPJ D, special issue on "Quantum fluctuations and coherence in optical and atomic structures"

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