Is my theoretical research testable by experiment?

[dmriser]

I have been working as an undergraduate research assistant for about a year.

My research deals with scattering theory and low energy collisions between He and a single electron.

I haven't had experience with experimental physics and I was just wondering if it would be possible to perform an experiment involving isolation of a single He atom and targeting it with a single electron repeatedly. If this type of experiment is possible does it require apparati not found in university physics labs?

It seems to me like isolation of a single atom would be a difficult task but like I said I new to experimental physics and just wondering.

PS. Please don't kill me if this question is an obvious one

 

[xts]

Your question is much beyond this forum. I can't say if it is feasible or not to test your theory (I don't know that). General answer is: why not?

My (experimentalist's) advice is: make a friend from experimental branch of your univ using couple of beers and discuss it in details, what you really need to measure. Then, maybe, both of you would have good subject for your theses.

 

[Andy Resnick]

These papers say there is experimental evidence:

http://prola.aps.org/abstract/PR/v183/i1/p245_1
http://pra.aps.org/abstract/PRA/v24/i4/p1823_1
http://prola.aps.org/abstract/PR/v168/i1/p50_1

Here's some data:

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sour...sg=AFQjCNGNwqt0NQFj4iF6wgZqHd1h4rQ0kA&cad=rja

 

[dmriser]

So far it looks to me like experiments are possible but one must be creative with the setup and sometimes measure things indirectly. Those papers are much more helpful than my searches yielded. Also, beers and discussion are always a good idea :).

Thanks for the advice and help!

 

[pmacias]

I understand your curiosity about the testability of your theoretical research. It is important to have a clear understanding of how your research can be tested and validated through experiments.

Based on your description, your research on scattering theory and low energy collisions between He and a single electron can definitely be tested through experiments. In fact, many scientific theories are developed through a combination of theoretical research and experimental validation.

In terms of the specific experiment you mentioned, it is possible to isolate a single He atom and target it with a single electron repeatedly. However, this type of experiment may require specialized apparatus and techniques that may not be available in university physics labs. It is important to consult with experienced experimental physicists or collaborate with a research team that has access to the necessary equipment and expertise.

Additionally, isolating a single atom can be a challenging task and may require careful planning and execution. It is not an obvious question and it is perfectly reasonable to have questions about the feasibility of such experiments. As a scientist, it is important to ask questions and seek guidance from experienced researchers to ensure the validity and success of your research.

Overall, your research seems to have great potential for experimental validation and I encourage you to continue exploring this avenue. Good luck with your research!