Articles tagged with Low Temperature Physics
Researchers are investigating novel quantum states by examining materials in reduced dimensions, which confine electron flow. This approach has led to the discovery of unusual metals and a better understanding of phase transitions at quantum limits.
A team led by Sean Ling observes melting in a superconductor using a single crystal of niobium and neutron imaging. The result shows that vortices can melt into a liquid at a specific temperature, paving the way for further studies on the mechanism of melting.
Glenn Agnolet's research uses Self-Assembled Tunnel Junctions (SATJs) to distinguish molecules based on their vibrational modes. By studying acetylene molecules on platinum, he found that the coupling between the molecule and electrons is ten times larger than expected.
Electrons may undergo fission in liquid helium at temperatures near absolute zero, violating the long-held notion that elementary particles cannot be broken into two pieces. Experimental evidence supports this theory, which suggests that light can cause an electron's bubble to divide into smaller bubbles.
The ORNL pellet blaster uses frozen pellets to strip contaminants from surfaces, leaving no residue. This method is safer and more efficient than traditional paint stripping methods, making it suitable for various industries including defense, aerospace, and manufacturing.