Quantum quirk: Scientists pack atoms together to prevent collisions in atomic clock
Thursday, February 3, 2011 - 14:33
in Physics & Chemistry
In a paradox typical of the quantum world, JILA scientists have eliminated collisions between atoms in an atomic clock by packing the atoms closer together. The surprising discovery, described in the Feb. 3 issue of Science Express, can boost the performance of experimental atomic clocks made of thousands or tens of thousands of neutral atoms trapped by intersecting laser beams.