The field of atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) science underpins many technologies and continues to progress at an exciting pace for both scientific discoveries and technological innovations. AMO physics studies the fundamental building blocks of functioning matter to help advance the understanding of the universe. It is a foundational discipline within the physical sciences, relating to atoms and their constituents, to molecules, and to light at the quantum level. AMO physics combines fundamental research with practical application, coupling fundamental scientific discovery to rapidly evolving technological advances, innovation and commercialization. Due to the wide-reaching intellectual, societal, and economical impact of AMO, it is important to review recent advances and future opportunities in AMO physics.


Manipulating Quantum Systems: An Assessment of Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics in the United States assesses opportunities in AMO science and technology over the coming decade. Key topics in this report include tools made of light; emerging phenomena from few- to many-body systems; the foundations of quantum information science and technologies; quantum dynamics in the time and frequency domains; precision and the nature of the universe, and the broader impact of AMO science.


Table of Contents


Front Matter
Summary
1 Manipulating Quantum Systems: AMO Science in the Coming Decade
2 Tools Made of Light
3 Emerging Phenomena from Few- to Many-Body Systems
4 Foundations of Quantum Information Science and Technology
5 Harnessing Quantum Dynamics in the Time and Frequency Domains
6 Precision Frontier and Fundamental Nature of the Universe
7 Broader Impact of AMO Science
8 Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Science: Part of the U.S. Economic and Societal Ecosystem
Appendixes
Appendix A: Statement of Task
Appendix B: Organization of the Report
Appendix C: Reprise of Past National Academies Reports on AMO Science
Appendix D: Committee Biographical Information
Appendix E: Data Solicitation and Collection
Appendix F: Acronyms