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Bose–Einstein condensate
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Atoms collapse into the lowest quantum state near absolute zero.
Below a critical temperature, a macroscopic fraction of bosons occupies the lowest quantum state, acting as one matter wave. First made in 1995 with rubidium at 170 nK.
Superfluid helium is related.
Requires extremely cold dilute gases.
In more detail
A Bose-Einstein condensate forms when a dilute gas of bosons is cooled so that many particles occupy the same lowest quantum state. It was first achieved in 1995 with rubidium atoms.
Real-world uses
- Condensates are used to study quantum physics on a macroscopic scale.
- Precision atom interferometers use condensates for sensors.
- Physicists create Bose–Einstein condensates in laboratories to study quantum effects on a macroscopic scale.
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Frequently asked questions
How cold is it?
Typically within billionths of a degree above absolute zero.
Why is it important?
It shows quantum effects on a scale visible to the eye.
Why are these condensates important?
They let scientists see quantum wave behaviour in a cloud of atoms, which is useful for precision measurements.
Related topics in Kinetic Theory & Statistical Physics
Canonical ensemble · Fermi–Dirac statistics · Bose–Einstein statistics · Fermi energy · Specific heat of solids · Debye model