Scientists have introduced an advanced method for highly accurate temperature measurement using large ‘Rydberg’ atoms. This atomic thermometer offers precise readings immediately, without the need for initial factory setups, thanks to its foundation in quantum physics principles. By capitalizing on the heightened sensitivity of Rydberg atoms to changes in their surroundings, this technique could make temperature measurement easier in extreme conditions, from outer space to high-precision industries.
Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have designed a new thermometer utilizing atoms that are energized to such an extent that they become a thousand times larger than typical atoms. By observing the way these oversized “Rydberg” atoms react to heat from their environment, scientists can achieve exceptional temperature measurements. The accuracy of this thermometer has the potential to enhance temperature evaluations in various domains, including quantum studies and industrial manufacturing.
In contrast to conventional thermometers, a Rydberg thermometer does not require pre-adjustment or calibration since it fundamentally operates on the basic principles of quantum physics. These core quantum concepts allow for precise measurements that align directly with international standards.
“We are effectively developing a thermometer that can deliver precise temperature readings without the customary calibrations that current devices require,” stated NIST postdoctoral researcher Noah Schlossberger.
Transforming Temperature Measurement
The study, published in Physical Review Research, marks the first instance of successful temperature measurement using Rydberg atoms. To construct this thermometer, researchers filled a vacuum chamber with rubidium gas and employed lasers and magnetic fields to cool and trap the atoms to near absolute zero, around 0.5 millikelvin (thousandths of a degree). This meant that the atoms were nearly motionless. Using lasers, they then excited the outermost electrons of the atoms to very high energy levels, expanding the atoms to roughly 1,000 times the size of standard rubidium atoms.
In Rydberg atoms, the outermost electron occupies a distant orbit from the nucleus, making it more sensitive to electric fields and other influences, including blackbody radiation – the heat released by surrounding objects. The blackbody radiation can induce the electrons in Rydberg atoms to leap to higher energy levels. As temperatures rise, the amount of ambient blackbody radiation and the frequency of these electron transitions also increase. Therefore, researchers can determine temperature by observing these energy alterations over time.
This method facilitates the detection of even minute temperature fluctuations. While there are various types of quantum thermometers, Rydberg thermometers can gauge their environment’s temperature from approximately 0 to 100 degrees Celsius without needing to come in contact with the object being measured.
This innovative breakthrough not only opens avenues for a new category of thermometers but also has significant implications for atomic clocks, as blackbody radiation can hinder their accuracy.
“Atomic clocks are extremely sensitive to temperature variations that can lead to minor errors in their readings,” commented NIST research scientist Chris Holloway. “We are optimistic that this new technology could enhance the precision of our atomic clocks.”
Beyond precision research, this new thermometer could find extensive uses in demanding scenarios, including spacecraft and sophisticated manufacturing processes, where accurate temperature readings are crucial.
With this advancement, NIST continues to expand the frontiers of science and technology.
“This method opens up possibilities for temperature measurements to be as trustworthy as the fundamental constants of nature,” Holloway concluded. “It represents an exciting advancement in quantum sensing technology.”
