Atomic state interference with fast hydrogen-like helium

Abstract

We study the stationary interference of the 2S1/2 or 2P1/2 states due to the passage of metastable hydrogen-like helium ions 4He+ through static electric fields. The basic theory of atomic state interference is presented and experimental conditions allowing observation of the interference pattern with a beam of 4He+ ions are analyzed. We show that optimal conditions are within the reach of modern day experimental techniques. We present theoretical interference curves for two types of atomic interferometers and discuss in detail approaches for the precise measurement of the Lamb shift δn=2 = 2S1/2 – 2P1/2 in 4He+. PACS Nos.: 31.30.Jv, 32.70.Fw, 39.10.+j, 39.20.+q