Analysis of localization phenomena in weakly interacting disordered lattice gases

Abstract

Disorder plays a crucial role in many systems particularly in solid state physics. However, the disorder in a particular system cannot usually be chosen or controlled. We show that the unique control available for ultracold atomic gases may be used for the production and observation of disordered quantum degenerate gases. A detailed analysis of localization effects for two possible realizations of a disordered potential is presented. In a theoretical analysis, clear localization effects are observed when a superlattice is used to provide a quasiperiodic disorder. The effects of localization are analysed by investigating the superfluid fraction and the localization length within the system. The theoretical analysis in this paper paves a clear path for the future observation of Anderson- like localization in disordered quantum gases.