Scientists create weird 'time crystal' from atoms inflated to be hundreds of times bigger than normal

In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Physics, physicists have made significant progress in understanding the mysterious phenomena of time crystals. By employing a new technique, researchers were able to create an extraordinary version of exotic matter known as a time crystal by enlarging rubidium atoms to several hundred times their normal size using lasers.

Time crystals, initially proposed by Nobel-prize-winning physicist Frank Wilczek in 2012, display a unique property of repeating in time, similar to how regular crystals repeat in space. This has intrigued physicists since it challenges the conventional symmetrical laws of physics that are observable across space and time. Regular crystals break spatial symmetry, resulting in different outcomes depending on the direction they act upon the crystals. Similarly, time crystals disrupt temporal symmetry, persistently oscillating between two states without slowing down.

Contrary to the misconception that time crystals violate the second law of thermodynamics as perpetual motion machines, it is important to emphasize that they operate within the boundaries of quantum mechanics, where the exchange of energy remains constant. The lasers driving time crystals enable them to perpetually oscillate without loss or gain of energy, rendering the second law irrelevant in this context.

To build their unique time crystal, the researchers manipulated excited rubidium atoms into Rydberg states by directing laser light at a glass container filled with the atoms. By augmenting the electrons within the atoms, the researchers caused the gaps between the atomic nuclei and the electrons' outer shells to expand significantly. This resulted in the unexpected emergence of a time crystal within the glass box.

This remarkable discovery opens up new avenues for exploring the properties and applications of time crystals. Co-author Thomas Pohl from the University of Vienna noted that this achievement aligns closely with Wilczek's original concept and sheds light on the time crystal phenomenon. The researchers believe that their creation could contribute to the development of highly sensitive sensors and further advancements in quantum synchronization. This synchronization, which facilitates multiple quantum systems to act in harmony, holds immense potential for the improvement of quantum computers.

Moving forward, the scientists responsible for this breakthrough will continue their exploration of the new time crystal and conduct further experiments to unlock its potential and understand its intricacies. The study represents a significant step forward in unraveling the mysteries of time crystals, ultimately deepening our understanding of the fundamental laws that govern the universe.