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Measuring the impact of single atoms
The objective of this project is to develop an atomic beam by ultrasonic expansion and to align it with a levitated nanoparticle in ultrahigh vacuum.
An optically levitated nanosphere gets displaced when an atom collides with it. Using laser interferometry the displacement of the nanosphere can be measured with picometer accuracy and theory predicts that single atomic impacts are measurable in real time.
The objective of this project is to develop an atomic beam by ultrasonic expansion [1] and to align it with a levitated nanoparticle in ultrahigh vacuum. The work involves the development of the atomic beam in a vacuum chamber, optimization of parameters and characterization of the beam’s properties. In a second step the atomic beam will be interfaced with an optically levitated particle.
References:
[1] G. Scoles, “Atomic and Molecular Beam Methods,” Oxford University Press, Chapters 2&3,
(1988).
Prerequisites:
Experimental skills, electronics and measurement techniques.
An optically levitated nanosphere gets displaced when an atom collides with it. Using laser interferometry the displacement of the nanosphere can be measured with picometer accuracy and theory predicts that single atomic impacts are measurable in real time. The objective of this project is to develop an atomic beam by ultrasonic expansion [1] and to align it with a levitated nanoparticle in ultrahigh vacuum. The work involves the development of the atomic beam in a vacuum chamber, optimization of parameters and characterization of the beam’s properties. In a second step the atomic beam will be interfaced with an optically levitated particle.
References: [1] G. Scoles, “Atomic and Molecular Beam Methods,” Oxford University Press, Chapters 2&3, (1988).
Prerequisites: Experimental skills, electronics and measurement techniques.