Theoretical analysis of velocity-selective Raman transitions

Abstract
This paper analyzes the use of Raman transitions to select a narrow velocity distribution of atoms. We determine the evolution of the atomic wave function comprised of both the internal state and the external momentum of the atom in the presence of two counterpropagating laser beams. The effects of a single π pulse, two separated Ramsey π/2 pulses, and a sequence of four π/2 pulses are analyzed.