The article discusses the development of next-generation atomic clocks that could redefine the second in the International System of Units (SI). These optical clocks, based on atoms like strontium, ytterbium, and ions like mercury and aluminum, can divide time into much smaller parts compared to current cesium-based clocks. The finer division allows for unprecedented accuracy and precision.
Key technical points:
– Optical clocks emit light frequencies up to 100,000 times higher than microwave frequencies used in cesium clocks
– They can potentially be 1,000 times more accurate and stable than cesium clocks
– NIST’s quantum logic clock, based on a single aluminum ion, achieved an uncertainty that would correspond to neither losing nor gaining a second in 3 billion years
The article mentions that the international standards community is working towards adopting a new standard by 2030. National metrology institutes like NIST are fulfilling criteria and conditions agreed upon by the international community, including optical clocks’ accuracy and stability validation by multiple institutes.
The potential impact of these advancements includes:
– More precise timekeeping for navigation, communication, and synchronization
– Improved detection of earthquake faults, mineral deposits, and Earth’s shape and gravity
– New capabilities in fundamental physics research, such as testing predictions of general relativity and quantum theory, and detecting new particles
The article concludes that each advancement in defining the second brings forth new capabilities, many of which are unforeseen. The upcoming redefinition of the second is expected to be no different.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/si-redefinition/second-future
Keywords: Atomic, Clocks, Precision, Frequency, Metrology
