Ultracold atoms Study

Source-This post on Ultracold atoms study has been created based on the article “RRI researchers develop new algorithm which can produce better images to study ultracold atoms” published in “The Hindu” on 7 February 2024.

Why in the news?

Scientists at RRI have recently designed a new image-correction algorithm that can enhance the study of ultracold atoms.

About Ultracold atoms

Definition– An ultracold atom is an atom with a temperature near absolute zero.

Properties– At low temperatures near absolute zero, atoms behave according to the principles of quantum mechanics rather than classical physics.

Ways to study ultracold atoms–
1)The commonly used techniques for the study of ultracold atoms is by deploying magneto-optical traps with high-power laser cooling techniques.
2) Cold atoms of elements like sodium, potassium, rubidium are commonly studied.
3) Detection techniques like the fluorescence, absorption or phase-contrast imaging techniques are used.
4) The imaging through fluorescence or absorption techniques are widely used.

Limitation of these techniques– The images obtained using these techniques suffer due to unwanted interference fringes. These are unwanted dark-bright patterns imprinted on the actual images. Thus, it lowers the quality of results obtained.

Significance of new image correction technique

1) It eliminates 50% of unwanted interference fringes in images. This is crucial for understanding the quantum mechanics properties of cold atoms.

2) It is capable of getting better images during the study of cold atoms or atoms at absolute zero temperature.

3) It improves temperature uncertainty in cold Rubidium atoms by 50%.

4) It holds promise for the widespread application of absorption imaging in the study of ultracold atoms.

About Raman Research Institute (RRI)

Nature of body-It is an autonomous research institute engaged in research in basic sciences. It is located in Bengaluru.

Established-The institute was established in 1948 by Indian physicist and Nobel Laureate Sir C.V. Raman. Sir C.V. Raman served as its director, carrying on his research until his demise in 1970.

Restructuring-It was restructured in 1972 to become an aided autonomous institute receiving funds from the Department of Science and Technology.

Governing council-The Governing Council is the executive body of the Institute and conducts the administration and management of the Institute.

Areas of work-Astronomy & Astrophysics, Light & Matter Physics, Soft Condensed Matter, and Theoretical Physics are major area of research.

Read more about-Quantum Mechanics

UPSC Syllabus-Science & technology