An ultra-precise atomic clock has just been created, and it will revolutionize science!
US researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed the most accurate atomic clock ever built. This revolutionary timekeeping tool will lose only one second every 30 billion years, more than twice the age of the universe. This technological prowess opens up exciting possibilities to push the boundaries of modern physics and solve some of the greatest mysteries of our universe.
New model of atomic clock based on strontium
This new creation Nest Belongs to category Optical atomic clocksUnlike older models that used microwave ovens, these newer generation appliances rely on visible lightand its frequency is much higher.
This makes it possible to examine the target atoms, and here StrontiumAt a much higher rate of hundreds of billions of times per second.
To achieve unparalleled precision, physicists trapped a few tens of thousands of particles.strontium atoms in laser beam networkThis large number combined with this electromagnetic trap makes it possible to statistically eliminate possible measurement errors. The result is a system with unprecedented chronometric reliability.
Revolutionary applications of space exploration and quantum computing
This major advance could revolutionize fields such as: AstronautsThanks to this precise chronometer, it will be possible to plan very complex spatial paths while minimizing the risk of error that could have disastrous consequences at these distances.
Indirectly, new generation watches can also advance significantly. Quantitative statisticsIn fact, the laser grid used to trap strontium atoms can also be used to lock qubitThese are the basic units of quantum information.
This would pave the way for more efficient and stable quantum computers by making it easier to maintain quantum coherence.
Towards Discovering the “Theory of Everything” Thanks to These Atomic Clocks
But maybe it is. Basic Physics This technological advance will have the greatest impact. Our current understanding of the universe is based on two main models: General relativity And the quantum physics.
Although each is very effective on its own scale, these two theories remain irreconcilable to this day, especially with regard to the issue of gravity.
However, these new optical atomic clocks are so precise that they could finally make it possible. Measuring Relative Impacts on a Small Scaleless than a millimeter. By studying the tiny fluctuations in time caused by gravity, physicists hope to pinpoint flaws in current models.
This new experimental approach may be the key to developing a “Theory of Everything“This is the holy grail of theoretical physics that will finally unite relativity and quantum physics. According to John Yeephysicist in Nest Co-author of the study, We are pushing the boundaries of science by exploring phenomena that have until now been purely theoretical. A giant step towards solving the greatest mysteries of our universe.
My name is Ethan, I am 30 years old and I am the founder of this magazine. After studying journalism, I quickly decided to work independently so that I could write as I wanted and talk about my real interests. My goal is to create an information center where French and international news is treated seriously and with insight. My goal is to enlighten the daily lives of my readers and encourage a deeper understanding of current issues.