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|July 18, 2020
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Scientists detected the extremely weak 2^{3}S_{1}→3^{3}S_{1} atomic transition in helium, the weakest in any neutral atom. This breakthrough enables new tests of quantum electrodynamics (QED) and precision atomic measurements.

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Area of Science:

  • Atomic Physics
  • Quantum Optics
  • Spectroscopy

Background:

  • The 2^{3}S_{1}→3^{3}S_{1} transition in helium is exceptionally weak and difficult to observe.
  • Observing such ultraweak transitions is crucial for testing fundamental physics theories like Quantum Electrodynamics (QED).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To detect and characterize the highly forbidden 2^{3}S_{1}→3^{3}S_{1} atomic transition in helium.
  • To develop novel experimental methods for measuring ultraweak atomic transitions.
  • To provide precise experimental data for testing QED contributions and frameworks.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized ultracold metastable (2^{3}S_{1}) helium atoms.
  • Developed a low background direct detection method for measuring transition frequency and lifetime.
  • Employed a pulsed atom laser heating measurement for determining transition strength.

Main Results:

  • Successfully detected the 2^{3}S_{1}→3^{3}S_{1} atomic transition in helium.
  • Measurements of transition frequency, upper state lifetime, and transition strength show excellent agreement with theoretical predictions.
  • The observed transition is the weakest ever recorded in a neutral atom.

Conclusions:

  • The experimental methods are effective for measuring ultraweak transitions in helium.
  • The results validate theoretical calculations and offer a new platform for QED tests.
  • These techniques can be extended to other atoms for precision metrology and the search for new physics.