Abstract
We consider the role of high-lying Rydberg states of simple atomic systems such as $^1$H in setting constraints on physics beyond the Standard Model. We obtain highly accurate bound states energies for a hydrogen atom in the presence of an additional force carrier (the energy levels of the Hellmann potential). These results show that varying the size and shape of the Rydberg state by varying the quantum numbers provides a way to probe the range of new forces. By combining these results with the current state-of-the-art QED corrections, we determine a robust global constraint on new physics that includes all current spectroscopic data in hydrogen. Lastly we show that improved measurements that fully exploit modern cooling and trapping methods as well as higher-lying states could lead to a strong, statistically robust global constraint on new physics based on laboratory measurements only.
Highlights
Detailed measurements of atomic spectra were key to the discovery of quantum mechanics and the development of relativistic quantum electrodynamics (QED)
We explore how the precision spectroscopy of states with a high principal quantum number n (Rydberg states) might be used to set constraints on physics beyond the standard model
By combining the resulting energies with previously derived relativistic, QED, and hyperfine corrections, we obtain predicted atomic transition frequencies that can be compared directly to experimental data to set a constraint on the strength of a new physics interaction
Summary
Detailed measurements of atomic spectra were key to the discovery of quantum mechanics and the development of relativistic quantum electrodynamics (QED). Even stateof-the-art calculations for species commonly used in atomic clocks only attain a fractional uncertainty of ≈10−5 [19], which is 14 orders of magnitude lower than the current experimental precision To circumvent this limitation, it has been proposed to look for new physics using the difference in spectral line positions between isotopes (isotope shifts) [5,20], rather than by direct comparison with theory. We explore how the precision spectroscopy of states with a high principal quantum number n (Rydberg states) might be used to set constraints on physics beyond the standard model. By combining the resulting energies with previously derived relativistic, QED, and hyperfine corrections, we obtain predicted atomic transition frequencies that can be compared directly to experimental data to set a constraint on the strength of a new physics interaction.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
