Proof-of-Principle Experiment for Testing Strong-Field Quantum Electrodynamics with Exotic Atoms: High Precision...

Area of Science:

• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Electrodynamics
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Muonic atoms offer a novel system for testing bound-state quantum electrodynamics (BSQED).
• Circular Rydberg states in muonic atoms minimize nuclear contributions, ideal for BSQED studies.
• High-precision spectroscopy is crucial for validating fundamental physics theories.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally verify bound-state quantum electrodynamics (BSQED) in the strong-field regime.
• To measure X-ray transitions in muonic neon atoms with high precision.
• To compare experimental results with advanced theoretical predictions of BSQED.

Main Methods:

• High-precision X-ray spectroscopy was performed on muonic neon atoms in a low-pressure gas phase.
• Superconducting transition-edge sensor microcalorimeters with 5.2-5.5 eV FWHM resolution were utilized.
• Measurements focused on the 5g-4f and 5f-4d transitions, including the 5g_{9/2}-4f_{7/2} transition.

Main Results:

• The 5g_{9/2}-4f_{7/2} transition energy was determined to be 6297.08 ± 0.04(stat) ± 0.13(syst) eV.
• The measured BSQED contributions were 2.4 eV for 5g-4f and 5.2 eV for 5f-4d transitions.
• Experimental results show excellent agreement with the leading BSQED theoretical prediction of 6297.26 eV.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully validated BSQED predictions in the strong-field regime using muonic neon.
• High-precision X-ray spectroscopy of muonic atoms is a viable method for fundamental physics tests.
• This work strengthens confidence in the accuracy of quantum electrodynamics calculations.