An atomic clock based on the transient coherent population trapping detuning oscillation phenomenon

Abstract

We have theoretically and experimentally proven that the transient transmitted laser power through a typical Λ system atomic cell near Coherent Population Trapping resonance presents as a damping oscillation. The oscillating frequency is identical to the frequency detuning from the atomic hyperfine splitting. Based on the transient coherent population trapping (TCPT) phenomenon, we have proposed an atomic clock in which the standard frequency is obtained by compensated the TCPT oscillating frequency to the RF modulating frequency. Therefore we do not need to lock the RF frequency. There will be advantages for atomic clock miniaturization and stabilization.