Precision Studies of Singly and Highly-Charged Ions: Mass Spectrometry and Laser Spectroscopy

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This project uses a precision Penning trap mass spectrometer to make atomic mass measurements at a precision near or below one part in 10 to the eleventh. Emphasis will be given to a precise intercomparison of tritium/helium with importance to determination of the neutrino mass. The measurements will exploit the novel, recently demonstrated technique of simultaneous cyclotron frequency measurement of two ions in a Penning trap. This method greatly suppresses the effects of fluctuations in the magnetic field and trap voltages which limited the precision of all previous work. The existing program of precision laser spectroscopy of hydrogen-like and helium-like ions will also be continued. These measurements test relativistic QED atomic theory, particularly of higher-order binding corrections. The broader impact involves education of both graduate and undergraduate students as well as efforts to recruit under-represented groups.