FULL QUANTUM STATE DETERMINATION VIA TIME-DEPENDENT SPECTRUM DATA

We develop a method of quantum state imaging (determination of the ful l initial density matrix of an atomic or molecular state) using time d ependent spectrum data. The method determines the wave function (or mo re generally, the density matrix) created via an arbitrary excitation process even when degenerate rotational degrees of freedom are present . It requires application of external electric and magnetic fields, wi thout which determination of the full density matrix is in general imp ossible. In the presence of external fields, quantum state imaging fro m angle and polarization resolved (or unresolved) time dependent spect rum data is feasible. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics.