Scientists at NIST have developed a new quantum-based thermometer using Rydberg atoms that can measure temperature with unprecedented accuracy. The Rydberg thermometer works by creating giant atoms with electrons in highly excited orbits, making them highly sensitive to environmental heat. By tracking the energy jumps of these electrons, the thermometer can detect even the smallest temperature changes without needing calibration.
This breakthrough could revolutionize temperature measurement in various fields, from quantum research to industrial manufacturing. The thermometer’s ability to measure temperature without contact and its inherent accuracy make it particularly valuable for atomic clocks and challenging environments. NIST’s research, published in Physical Review Research, marks the first successful use of Rydberg atoms for temperature measurement.
Keywords: Rydberg, Quantum, Temperature, Thermometer, Measurement
