65 research outputs found
Non-linear spectroscopy of rubidium: An undergraduate experiment
In this paper, we describe two complementary non-linear spectroscopy methods
which both allow to achieve Doppler-free spectra of atomic gases. First,
saturated absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate the structure of the
transition in rubidium. Using a slightly
modified experimental setup, Doppler-free two-photon absorption spectroscopy is
then performed on the transition in
rubidium, leading to accurate measurements of the hyperfine structure of the
energy level. In addition, electric dipole selection rules of
the two-photon transition are investigated, first by modifying the polarization
of the excitation laser, and then by measuring two-photon absorption spectra
when a magnetic field is applied close to the rubidium vapor. All experiments
are performed with the same grating-feedback laser diode, providing an
opportunity to compare different high resolution spectroscopy methods using a
single experimental setup. Such experiments may acquaint students with quantum
mechanics selection rules, atomic spectra and Zeeman effect.Comment: 16 pages, 8 figure
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A Qualitative Analysis of Experiential Challenges Associated with Meditation Practice
Although empirical interest in meditation has flourished in recent years, few studies have addressed possible downsides of meditation practice, particularly in community populations. In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 male meditators in London, UK, recruited using principles of maximum variation sampling, and analysed using a modified constant comparison approach. Having originally set out simply to inquire about the impact of various meditation practices (including but not limited to mindfulness) on men’s wellbeing, we uncovered psychological challenges associated with its practice. While meditation was generally reported to be conducive to wellbeing, substantial difficulties accounted for approximately one quarter of the interview data. Our paper focuses specifically on these issues in order to alert health professionals to potential challenges associated with meditation. Four main problems of increasing severity were uncovered: Meditation was a difficult skill to learn and practise; participants encountered troubling thoughts and feelings which were hard to manage; meditation reportedly exacerbated mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety; and in a few cases, meditation was associated with psychotic episodes. Our paper raises important issues around safeguarding those who practise meditation, both within therapeutic settings and in the community
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