Physicists around the world have long been awaiting a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of nuclear physics. After years of searching, a team led by Prof. Thorsten Schumm from TU Wien (Vienna) has finally unlocked the potential of a specific state of thorium atomic nuclei. This discovery holds the key to a wide range of revolutionary technological applications, from building highly accurate nuclear clocks to answering profound questions about the nature of constants in the universe. This breakthrough marks the convergence of classical quantum physics and nuclear physics, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.
One of the primary challenges in manipulating atomic nuclei with lasers is the significantly higher energy requirement compared to manipulating atoms or molecules. The energy needed to induce transitions in atomic nuclei far exceeds that of electrons in atoms or molecules, making it seemingly impossible to utilize laser techniques for this purpose. However, the team’s innovative approach involving special thorium-containing crystals revolutionized the game. By incorporating a large number of thorium atoms into these crystals, researchers were able to enhance the effect, shorten measurement times, and drastically increase the probability of detecting the elusive energy transition.
From Speculation to Precision
The journey to discovering the thorium transition began in the 1970s with speculation about the unique properties of thorium-229 nuclei. Due to the closely adjacent energy states of this nucleus, researchers theorized that a laser could potentially induce the sought-after transition. However, the precision required to hit the exact energy level was comparable to finding a needle in a haystack. Through meticulous research and experimentation, the team successfully hit the precise energy level on November 21, 2023, a momentous achievement that has opened the door to a new era of precision measurements and technological advancements.
With the successful realization of the thorium transition, a myriad of opportunities emerge in the fields of timekeeping, geophysics, and fundamental physics. The development of an atomic clock based on the oscillation of light exciting the thorium transition promises unparalleled accuracy in time measurement. Moreover, the ability to analyze Earth’s gravitational field with extreme precision could unveil invaluable insights into mineral resources and seismic activities. On a broader scale, this breakthrough technology could shed light on the constancy of nature’s fundamental constants, potentially uncovering subtle changes over time.
Looking Ahead
As Prof. Schumm and his team embark on this new frontier of research, the possibilities seem endless. The newfound ability to manipulate atomic nuclei with lasers has paved the way for a plethora of innovative applications and scientific discoveries. From redefining the concept of time with ultra-precise atomic clocks to probing the mysteries of the universe through fundamental measurements, the future holds immense promise. Prof. Schumm aptly summarizes this sentiment by stating, “Our measuring method is just the beginning. We cannot yet predict what results we will achieve with it.” The journey towards unlocking the full potential of the thorium transition has only just begun.