Simple theory of microwave induced transparency in atomic and molecular systems

In recent years the idea of electromagnetically induced transparency in ato mic systems using a microwave coupling field has been discussed. We present theoretical work on how this may be achieved in both Doppler systems, and by extension in non-Doppler broadened systems. By considering the specific example of atomic rubidium we demonstrate the feasibility and practical dif ficulties of such an experiment. By considering systems with appropriate ro tational-vibration structure we conclude that microwave induced transparenc y in gas vapours is more readily achievable in molecular systems.