Prof. Mark Raizen, University of Texas at Austin

"New Tests of Quantum Mechanics with Atoms"

Abstract: Steven Weinberg, and reanalyze his prediction of a new test based upon three atomic clocks in the same atom [1]. We propose realistic experimental systems where this hypothesis can be tested [2]. Two systems already set limits on deviations from quantum mechanics, while with another system one would be able to search for new physics at the limit of sensitivity of the best atomic clocks.

Independently, we consider the time-evolution of simple quantum systems such as the decay of a radioactive atom where entanglement with environmental degrees of freedom may lead to “aging.” We propose a test of such aging in an ion clock setup where we probe for temporal changes to the energies of the electronic state of an ion containing a radioactive nucleus. Such effects are absent in standard quantum mechanics and this test is thus a potent null test for violations of quantum mechanics. As a proof of principle, we show that these effects exist in causal non-linear modifications of quantum mechanics [3].

Beyond atomic clocks, the control and cooling of atomic ensembles will enable new tests of fundamental physics. We propose new cooling methods using photon entropy instead of photon momentum as an alternative to evaporative cooling [4]. The production of ultra-large Bose-Einstein condensates may enable the study of the effects of gravity on quantum mechanics.

This talk is dedicated to the memory of Steven Weinberg, one of the greatest physicists of all time [5].

[1] “Lindblad decoherence in atomic clocks,” Steven Weinberg, Phys.Rev.A 94, 042117 (2016)] [2] “Proposed test of quantum mechanics with three connected atomic clock transitions,” Mark G. Raizen, Gerald Gilbert, and Dmitry Budker, Phys. Rev. A 106, 032209 (2022).
[3] “Do atoms age?” Mark G. Raizen, David E. Kaplan, and Surjeet Rajendran, Phys. Lett. B 832, 137224 (2022).
[4] “Efficient cooling of high angular momentum systems,” Mark G. Raizen, Logan E. Hillberry, Dmitry Budker, and Simon M. Rochester, arXiv:2301.13121
[5] “Obituary for Steven Weinberg,” Mark G. Raizen, Physics Today 74, 72 (2021).