Principal problems in Bose-Einstein condensation of dilute gases

Abstract

A survey is given of the present state of the art in studying Bose-Einstein condensation of dilute atomic gases. The bulk of attention is focused on the principal theoretical problems, though the related experiments are also mentioned. Both uniform and nonuniform trapped gases are considered. Existing theoretical contradictions are critically analysed. A correct understanding of the principal theoretical problems is necessary for gaining a more penetrating insight into experiments with trapped atoms and for their proper interpretation.