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Long-Axis Spinning of an Optically Levitated Particle: A Levitated Spinning Top
J A Zielińska1, F van der Laan1,2, A Norrman1,3
1Photonics Laboratory, <a href="https://ror.org/05a28rw58">ETH Zürich</a>, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
Physical Review Letters
|July 12, 2024
Summary
Researchers achieved controlled long-axis spinning of nanoparticles, reaching over 1 GHz speeds. This breakthrough in optical levitation opens new avenues for high-precision sensing and quantum studies.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Nanotechnology
- Quantum Mechanics
Background:
- Optically levitated nanoparticles enable studies of rotational dynamics.
- Short-axis rotation has been achieved and cooled to millikelvin temperatures.
- Controlled long-axis spinning of nanoparticles has remained a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate controlled long-axis spinning of an optically levitated nanodumbbell.
- To investigate the spinning rates and damping of such nanostructures.
- To explore potential applications in sensing and quantum interference.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing optical levitation to trap and manipulate a nanodumbbell.
- Applying precise laser control to induce and sustain long-axis rotation.
- Measuring spinning rates and damping in high vacuum conditions.
Main Results:
- Achieved controlled long-axis spinning of a nanodumbbell at rates exceeding 1 GHz.
- Demonstrated exceptionally low damping rates in high vacuum, on the order of millihertz.
- Validated the feasibility of high-speed, stable long-axis rotation in levitated nanoparticles.
Conclusions:
- Controlled long-axis spinning of levitated nanoparticles is now achievable.
- The low damping rates suggest potential for sensitive measurements.
- This work paves the way for novel applications in inertial torque sensing and rotational quantum interference studies.
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