Laser Trapping of Erbium May Lead to Novel Devices (IMAGE)

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Laser Trapping of Erbium May Lead to Novel Devices

Caption

A purple laser beam slows erbium atoms (the purple beam traveling right to left) emerging from an oven at 1300 degrees C, in preparation for trapping and cooling. The unusual properties of erbium atoms and the new capability to trap them could lead to development of novel technologies.

Credit

Credit: NIST

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.