A team of scientists at the University of Arizona has developed a groundbreaking microscope that allows them to observe electrons in real time. The “atomicroscope” uses ultrafast laser pulses to control electrons, capturing their movements at timescales measured in attoseconds.
This innovation opens up new frontiers for research in physics and materials science, providing unprecedented insights into the fundamental building blocks of matter. By visualizing electrons in action, scientists can better understand various processes, such as chemical reactions and electrical conductivity.
The team led by Associate Professor Mohammed Hassan turned to graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb pattern, to demonstrate their microscope’s capabilities. They observed how electrons respond to intense laser pulses, shifting between energy states and moving across the material’s structure in real-time.
One remarkable discovery was how swiftly electrons react to external stimuli. The team found that these electrons could respond to changes in the laser field in less than a femtosecond. This suggests potential for ultrafast electronic devices operating at speeds previously thought unattainable.
The implications of this technology are vast, with potential applications in solar energy research, quantum computing, and materials science. By providing a window into the quantum world, attomicroscopy could lead to more efficient solar cells, faster and more secure quantum computers, and stronger, lighter, and more conductive materials.
While significant progress has been made, further research is needed to refine the technique and expand its applications. The scientific community remains optimistic about the potential for new discoveries and connections between quantum physics and real-world applications.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/watching-electrons-move-1-quintillionth-of-second-attoseconds-attomicroscopy/