  We describe the controlled loading and measurement of number-squeezed states
and Poisson states of atoms in individual sites of a double well optical
lattice. These states are input to an atom interferometer that is realized by
symmetrically splitting individual lattice sites into double wells, allowing
atoms in individual sites to evolve independently. The two paths then
interfere, creating a matter-wave double-slit diffraction pattern. The time
evolution of the double-slit diffraction pattern is used to measure the number
statistics of the input state. The flexibility of our double well lattice
provides a means to detect the presence of empty lattice sites, an important
and so far unmeasured factor in determining the purity of a Mott state.

Quantum Physics