English

Using attosecond pulses to reveal new information about the photoelectric effect

1117
2024-09-02 15:22:21
See translation

Scientists from the Stanford National Accelerator (SLAC) laboratory of the US Department of Energy have revealed new information about the photoelectric effect using attosecond pulses: the delay time of photoelectric emission is as long as 700 attosecond, far exceeding previous expectations. The latest research challenges existing theoretical models and helps to reveal the interactions between electrons more deeply, promoting the development of technologies such as semiconductors and solar cells. The relevant paper titled 'Attested delays in X-ray molecular ionization' was published in the latest issue of the journal Nature.

The photoelectric effect refers to the phenomenon in which photons interact with molecules or atoms on a metal surface when light is irradiated, causing the metal surface to release electrons. This effect laid the theoretical foundation for quantum mechanics, but the so-called photoelectric emission delay time has always been a fiercely debated topic. The latest progress in the field of attosecond science provides an important tool for further revealing the secret of this time delay.

Research schematic diagram
In the latest study, researchers used attosecond (10 billionth of a second) X-ray pulses emitted by SLAC's linear accelerator coherent light source to ionize core level electrons and "kick" them out of molecules. Then, they used separate laser pulses to "kick" the electrons in slightly different directions based on their emission time to measure the delay time of photoelectric emission.

Research shows that this delay time is as long as 700 attosecond, and the interaction between electrons plays an important role in this delay. Researchers point out that measuring and interpreting these time delays can help better analyze experimental results, especially in fields such as protein crystallography and medical imaging where the interaction between X-rays and matter is crucial. They plan to delve deeper into the electronic dynamics within different molecular systems, further revealing new information on electronic behavior and molecular structure.

Source: Science and Technology Daily, Author: Liu Xia

Related Recommendations
  • Progress in the Research of Continuous Wave Laser in Chemical Industry

    Laser plays an important role in fields such as photonic chips, laser displays, and in vehicle radars. Organic materials have advantages such as molecular diversity, energy level richness, heterogeneous compatibility, and ease of processing. They have significant advantages in the construction of high-performance and multifunctional lasers and are expected to further innovate laser technology and ...

    2023-08-31
    See translation
  • Atomstack Maker A5 V2: A laser engraving machine suitable for beginners

    In the recent DIY field, innovative and increasingly affordable laser engraving machines have emerged, mainly designed for first-time users in this field. A particularly noteworthy example in this regard is the Atomstack Maker A5 V2 model. This device is known for its versatility and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for beginners in the world of laser engraving.The Atomstack Maker A5 V2 is a...

    2024-01-03
    See translation
  • Synchrotron X-ray imaging technology

    According to a recent study published in the journal Science Advances, it reveals how early mammals grew and developed during critical periods of their long 'life history'. A research team including Queen Mary University of London used synchrotron X-ray tomography technology to image the growth rings in fossilized tooth roots, in order to infer the lifespan, growth rate, and even sexual maturity t...

    2024-08-15
    See translation
  • The First Operation of Two Color Mode in Infrared Free Electron Laser

    The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Institute in Berlin has achieved a technological milestone. The infrared free electron laser operates in dual color mode for the first time. This globally unique technology makes it possible to conduct experiments on synchronous dual color laser pulses, opening up new possibilities for research.There are over a dozen free electron lasers worldwide, with ...

    2024-02-18
    See translation
  • Yawei Group and Zhonggang Metal signed a complete set of sheet metal laser processing equipment to assist in the development of curtain wall materials industry

    Recently, Yawei Group signed a complete set of sheet metal laser processing equipment with Hubei Zhonggang Metal Xianning Second Production Base, adding bricks and tiles to the takeoff of Zhonggang Metal Business. After full production, the annual production of various aluminum metal plates will exceed 6 million square meters, and Zhonggang Metal will usher in another leap forward development!Zhon...

    2023-11-03
    See translation