Speaker
Description
One can derive a fluid model for a gas of neutral atoms which has been cooled down and trapped in a Magneto-Optical-Trap. Two main forces act on the system, one being the central trapping force, and the other a repulsive collective force induced by multiple-scattering and absorption of light, and whose intensity can be regulated by set-up parameters of the trap. This allows for its manipulation, for example, its sudden reduction. Moreover, these forces constitute a balance of forces similar to a spherically-symmetric star, in the sense that a repulsive collective force and a pressure gradient counteract a central attractive force.
These factors motivate the main objective of the project, which is to explore gravitational analogues in the ultra-cold gas, namely phenomena such as collapse, and shock waves, which are bound to happen in sudden compressions. To thoroughly analyse these complex phenomena, proper numerical methods must be employed.
