q-Gaussian trial function and Bose-Einstein condensation

We use q-Gaussian trial wave function, based on Tsallis statistics, to stud y, variationally, the ground stare and vortex state energies of Bose-Einste in condensation of dilute ultracold alkali atoms in anisotropic traps. This trial function works well when compared with the results available by pure ly numerical techniques, for both kinds of interactions among the atoms: at tractive (Li-7) and repulsive (Rb-87). (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All r ights reserved.