The Mysteries of Atomic Clocks

In summary, an atomic clock uses microwaves to shoot cesium atoms and the right microwaves will cause an electron to jump up to the next energy level. They then use this to tune the microwave laser. When they shoot a photon at the atom, let's say it took x amount of joules to excite the electron to the next energy level, wouldn't x+.001 excite the electron to the next orbital? They are using the maser to keep time.
  • #1
cragar
2,552
3
So I am reading about how an atomic clock works , So they shoot microwaves at cesium atoms
and the right microwaves will cause an electron to jump up to the next energy level , are they using this to tune the microwave laser so they know what the frequency of the laser is .
and when they shoot a photon at the atom , let's say it took x amount of joules to excite the electron to the next energy level wouldn't x+.001 excite the electron to the next orbital , are they using the maser to keep time ?
 
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  • #2
There are some run-on sentences and misused words in there so it is pretty tough to read, but...
...lets say it took x amount of joules to excite the electron to the next energy level wouldn't x+.001 excite the electron to the next orbital...
Sure. I guess you're suggesting that would create a difficulty in tuning the frequency? I don't see why it would: if you're getting the reaction you are looking for, you know you are high and if you aren't, you know you are low.
 
  • #3
so they tune it just barely to where it is exciting the atoms , it seems like it would be tough to know that you are dead on
 
  • #4
cragar said:
so they tune it just barely to where it is exciting the atoms , it seems like it would be tough to know that you are dead on
There is no such thing as "dead on" with any measurement, only the illusion of it if your measuring instruments aren't sensitive/accurate/precise enough to measure the deviation.
 
  • #5
ok , but i am still not clear on what oscillation is used to keep time in the atomic clock .
 
  • #6
Do you know what feedback is? Or how a phase-locked loop works?

I see that a lot of your questions involve very advanced topics - there's a reason that the standard physics curriculum teaches blocks on inclined planes before gluons, black holes and atomic clocks: advanced topics build on the basics.
 
  • #7
Vanadium 50 said:
I see that a lot of your questions involve very advanced topics - there's a reason that the standard physics curriculum teaches blocks on inclined planes before gluons, black holes and atomic clocks: advanced topics build on the basics.
Maybe i should wait until i get further into my degree
 

FAQ: The Mysteries of Atomic Clocks

What is an atomic clock?

An atomic clock is a highly precise and accurate timekeeping device that uses the vibration of atoms to measure time. It is considered the most accurate type of clock, with an accuracy of one second in millions of years.

How do atomic clocks work?

Atomic clocks use the oscillation of atoms, typically cesium or rubidium, to keep time. The atoms are excited by an external energy source, causing them to vibrate at a specific frequency. This frequency is then measured and used to keep track of time.

Why are atomic clocks important?

Atomic clocks are important because they provide a standardized and accurate measure of time that is crucial for many modern technologies and daily activities. They are used in GPS systems, telecommunications, and scientific research, among other applications.

How accurate are atomic clocks?

Atomic clocks are incredibly accurate, with a margin of error of only one second in millions of years. This level of precision is achieved by using the vibration of atoms, which is a constant and unchanging phenomenon.

What are the different types of atomic clocks?

There are several types of atomic clocks, including cesium, rubidium, hydrogen, and mercury ion clocks. Each type uses a different element for its oscillation, but all rely on the same principle of using atomic vibrations to measure time.

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