Scalar Aharonov-Bohm effect with longitudinally polarized neutrons

Citation
Be. Allman et al., Scalar Aharonov-Bohm effect with longitudinally polarized neutrons, PHYS REV A, 60(6), 1999, pp. 4272-4284
Citations number
44
Categorie Soggetti
Physics
Journal title
PHYSICAL REVIEW A
ISSN journal
10502947 → ACNP
Volume
60
Issue
6
Year of publication
1999
Pages
4272 - 4284
Database
ISI
SICI code
1050-2947(199912)60:6<4272:SAEWLP>2.0.ZU;2-K
Abstract
In the scalar Aharonov-Bohm effect, a charged particle (electron) interacts with the scaler electrostatic potential U in the field-foe (i.e., force-fr ee) region inside an electrostatic cylinder (Faraday cage). Using a perfect single-crystal neutron interferometer we have performed a ''dual'' scalar Aharonov-Bohm experiment by subjecting polarized thermal neutrons to a puls ed magnetic field. The pulsed magnetic field was spatially uniform, preclud ing any force on the neutrons. Aligning the direction of the pulsed magneti c field to the neutron magnetic moment also rules out any classical torque acting to change the neutron polarization. The observed phase shift is pure ly quantum mechanical in origin. A detailed description of the experiment, performed at the University of Missouri Research Reactor, and its interpret ation is given in this paper. [S1050-2947(99)02310-0].