Deterministic ultracold ion source targeting the Heisenberg limit.

Area of Science:

• Quantum computing
• Nanotechnology
• Atomic physics

Background:

• Fabricating quantum processors and nano-solid-state devices faces challenges in nanometer-resolution material modification and controlling dopant fluctuations.
• Deterministic control over individual ions is crucial for scalable quantum technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a deterministic single-ion source for quantum applications.
• To demonstrate precise control over ion extraction and beam characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a segmented ion trap with millikelvin (mK) laser-cooled ions.
• Implemented sympathetic cooling for a wide range of ion species, isotopes, and ionic molecules.
• Developed a method for deterministic extraction of a predetermined number of ions on demand.

Main Results:

• Achieved a deterministic single-ion source capable of operating with various sympathetically cooled ions.
• Measured a longitudinal velocity uncertainty of 6.3 m/s.
• Measured a spatial beam divergence of 600 microrad.
• Numerical simulations indicate nanometer spatial resolution is achievable when ions are cooled to the motional ground state (Heisenberg limit).

Conclusions:

• The developed deterministic single-ion source offers a viable solution for fabricating quantum processors and nano-devices.
• Precise control over ion extraction and beam properties is demonstrated.
• Achieving the Heisenberg limit in ion cooling is key to realizing nanometer spatial resolution.