Time crystals have been a topic of debate and controversy since Nobel Prize winner Frank Wilczek first proposed the concept back in 2012. The idea of an object that repeats itself not in space but in time seemed challenging and almost impossible to some, while others were intrigued by the possibilities it presented. Now, a team of researchers from Tsinghua University in China, with support from TU Wien in Austria, have successfully created a remarkable kind of time crystal using laser light and special Rydberg atoms.
According to Wilczek’s theory, time crystals should exhibit a spontaneous periodicity, where a rhythm emerges without any external influence. This phenomenon, known as spontaneous symmetry breaking, results in a predetermined tick frequency by the physical properties of the system. Prof. Thomas Pohl, from the Institute of Theoretical Physics at TU Wien, explains that the times at which the tick occurs are completely random, despite the regularity of the pattern. The research conducted at Tsinghua University involved shining laser light into a glass container filled with a gas of rubidium atoms, leading to unexpected oscillations in the intensity of light at the other end of the container.
The key to the experiment lay in preparing the atoms in a special way, creating Rydberg atoms with a giant electron shell. These atoms, with their unique properties, interacted differently with the laser light, resulting in spontaneous oscillations between two atomic states. This feedback loop caused the light absorption to oscillate in a regular pattern, translating the beat of the giant atoms into a rhythmic light intensity at the end of the container. The researchers were able to create a system that aligned closely with Wilczek’s original idea of time crystals, paving the way for further exploration and applications.
The discovery of time crystals opens up a realm of possibilities for research and practical applications. The self-sustained oscillations exhibited by the system could be utilized in various fields, such as sensor technology. The precise and regular nature of the oscillations provides a platform for deepening our understanding of time crystals and their potential uses in different technologies. The ability to generate periodic rhythms without external interference could revolutionize various industries and lead to advancements in scientific discoveries.
The creation of a time crystal at Tsinghua University marks a significant milestone in the exploration of this intriguing phenomenon. The research conducted not only aligns with Frank Wilczek’s original concept but also provides a practical example of how time crystals can be realized under specific conditions. The implications of this discovery are vast, offering new opportunities for research, technological advancements, and a deeper understanding of the fundamental properties of time. As we continue to delve into the realm of time crystals, we unlock a world of possibilities that could shape the future of science and technology.
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