NIST researchers have developed a fundamentally accurate quantum thermometer that measures temperature by observing the quantum mechanical vibrations of a nanoscale silicon nitride beam. The device works by comparing the relative size of thermal vibrations to the inherent quantum zero-point motion, which is independent of temperature. This allows precise determination of absolute temperature over a wide range, from cryogenic to room temperatures.
The key innovation is the ability to distinguish quantum fluctuations from much larger thermal vibrations, which was achieved by inducing correlations in the beam’s motion through photon kicks from a laser. This new quantum thermometer could serve as an integrated temperature standard, providing absolute calibration for other thermometers and maintaining accuracy over long periods.
The technology is still in early stages but has potential applications in high-precision industries, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and climate monitoring. The research was conducted at NIST’s Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology and will be presented at the American Physical Society March Meeting in March 2016.
Keywords: Quantum, Thermometry, Temperature, Metrology
