RPTU researchers observe quantum bound state in lithium atoms
Researchers at RPTU published findings on a quantum state where two lithium atoms remain bound despite having enough energy to separate.
Atoms stay together normally
Professor Artur Widera leads the Individual Quantum Systems group at RPTU. The team observed a molecular state that could decay energetically yet remained intact. Quantum interference suppresses this natural decay process effectively. This wave nature allows the state to persist against expectations.
Method controls ultracold collisions
The study provides the first experimental demonstration of this mechanism in ultracold atom collisions. Earlier work in Science Advances 2025 introduced rapidly oscillating magnetic fields for control. Scientists lowered the temperature of lithium atoms to under one millionth of a degree above absolute zero. These extreme conditions allow exceptional precision in manipulating quantum behavior.
Noise cancellation principle applies
The underlying principle resembles active noise-canceling headphones generating waves to cancel unwanted sound. A molecule decays through different pathways each associated with its own quantum wave. When these waves interfere correctly they cancel one another out completely. This interference blocks the decay process so atoms stay bound.
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