The early days of quantum optics in France
Claude N. Cohen-Tannoudji
We review a few early studies on atom–photon interactions which took place in France after World War II and before the seventies. Several examples are discussed, including double resonance and optical pumping, radiofrequency multiphoton processes, quantum interference effects in radiative processes, master equation description of atom–photon interactions, optical resonators and laser media, etc. We try to point out the continuity which exists between these early studies and more recent investigations in new research fields, such as laser cooling and trapping. Some general conclusions about science policy will be finally drawn from such a historical review.
Comptes Rendus Physique•Feb 15, 2019•3 citations