Abstract
We present a new type of atom interferometer (AI) that provides a tool for ultra-high precision tests of fundamental physics. As an example we present how an AI based on highly charged hydrogen-like atoms is affected by gravitational waves (GW). A qualitative description of the quantum interferometric measurement principle is given, the modifications in the atomic Hamiltonian caused by the GW are presented, and the size of the resulting frequency shifts in hydrogen-like atoms is estimated. For a GW amplitude of h = 10−23 the frequency shift is of the order of 110μHz for an AI based on a 91-fold charged uranium ion. A frequency difference of this size can be resolved by current AIs in 1 s.
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