A team led by Francesca Ferlaino has set a new milestone in atomic physics by trapping individual erbium atoms in optical tweezers for the first time. Taking advantage of erbium's complex electronic structure, which opens up new degrees of freedom and possibilities, this advancement opens the door to a range of innovative experiments in quantum science. The research is published in Physical Review Letters.
The achievement enables a groundbreaking approach to the study of elements with multiple valence electrons—a realm previously dominated by simpler atoms with one or two valence electrons. Erbium, which possesses 14 valence electrons, introduces new degrees of freedom and opens up exciting opportunities for quantum experimentation, enabling the exploration of previously uncharted atomic behaviors.
"The complexity of these atoms allows us to explore more nuanced interactions between particles, providing a quantum playground with incredible potential for developing new experiments," explains Manfred Mark, co-supervisor of the experiments.
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