Precision Measurement of the n=2 Triplet P J=1 to J=0 Fine Structure of Atomic Helium Using Frequency-Offset Separated Oscillatory Fields.

Abstract

Increasing accuracy of the theory and experiment of the n=2 ^{3}P fine structure of helium has allowed for increasingly precise tests of quantum electrodynamics (QED), determinations of the fine-structure constant α, and limitations on possible beyond the standard model physics. Here we present a 2ppb measurement of the J=1 to J=0 interval. The measurement is performed using frequency-offset separated-oscillatory fields. Our result of 29 616 955 018(60)Hz represents a landmark for helium fine-structure measurements, and, for the first time, will allow for a 1-ppb determination of the fine-structure constant when QED theory for the interval is improved.