A robust method for the creation of equal superpositions in rubidium: a pulse scheme for the momentum state quantum computer

The coherent control over quantum systems, specifically the preparation of atomic systems into a desired superposition, is central to many aspects of experimental quantum optics, including atomic interferometry and the emerging science of quantum computation. A simple, robust and experimentally realisable technique to achieve this preparation is sought. A technique suitable for application in algorithmic cooling in a momentum state quantum computer, is presented here.