Selective population transfer and creation of an arbitrary superposition between quantum states in a Λ-type four-level system by a single linearly chirped pulse

We present a simple and robust way to execute selective population transfer and creation of an arbitrary superposition between quantum states in a Λ-type four-level system with doublet ground states driven by a single linearly chirped pulse. It is demonstrated that the population in the initial state can be completely and flexibly transferred to either of the target states by manipulating the chirp rate and detuning of the laser pulse. Besides, the formation of an arbitrary superposition between the initial state and either of the target states through properly changing the chirp rate and detuning is also exhibited. The results of this method can be useful for selective quantum coherent control in systems with multiple target states. (letter)