Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of slowing down light to human speeds using bose-einstein condensates and the theory behind it. It is mentioned that this can be achieved by increasing the index of refraction and a recommended article is provided for further information. The potential of fermionic condensates in achieving the same is also mentioned, but the speaker is unsure about its feasibility.
  • #1
jobsism
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Im just a 11th grader so pardon me if i sound stupid.

I had read in an article that bose-einstein condensates can slow down light to mere human speeds. Is this really possible?if so, what's the theory behind this? Can the same be achieved by fermionic condensates?
 
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  • #2
Yes, it's possible. You might google the following: "lene hau" slow light, to get more info. To put it very simply, the index of refraction can be made very large under the right circumstances. Here is an article that may get you started:
http://www.jupiterscientific.org/sciinfo/slowlight.html
It may be worth your while to find her article in the Feb. 1999 issue of Nature magazine as well.
Can the same be achieved by fermionic condensates?
I am not sure about fermionic condensates.
 
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FAQ: Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

What are Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers are a state of matter that occurs at extremely low temperatures, where certain particles called bosons lose their individual identities and merge into a single entity. This entity acts as a light stopper, meaning it can absorb and trap light, making it useful for studying light and matter interactions.

How are Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers created?

To create a Bose-Einstein condensate-light stopper, a gas of bosonic particles is cooled to temperatures close to absolute zero (-273.15 degrees Celsius). This process is done using specialized equipment such as lasers and magnetic fields to slow down and cool the particles until they merge into a single entity.

What are the properties of Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers have unique properties, such as being superfluid, meaning they can flow without any resistance. They also have a well-defined shape and can exhibit interference patterns, making them useful for studying quantum mechanics and wave-particle duality.

What are the potential applications of Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers have potential applications in fields such as quantum computing, precision measurement, and high-precision sensors. They can also be used to study fundamental physics principles and could potentially lead to new technologies and discoveries.

What are the challenges in studying Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers?

Studying Bose-Einstein condensates-light stoppers can be challenging due to the extremely low temperatures and specialized equipment required. It also requires a deep understanding of quantum mechanics and advanced experimental techniques. Additionally, the properties of Bose-Einstein condensates can be easily disrupted by outside factors, making it difficult to maintain and study them for extended periods.

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