Physicists have learned how to control the nucleus of an atom using an electric field

Researchers conducted experiments on various manifestations of nuclear magnetic resonance, which

occurs in substances with nuclei with a non-zero magnetic moment. This means that the electric charge in them “rotates” relative to their core.

When exposed to an external magnetic field, the magnetic moments of its nuclei are reoriented, and the substance will resonantly absorb or emit electromagnetic energy at a certain frequency.

This technology is used in many modern devices — with its help you can analyze rock or analyze the state of organs and tissues in the human body.

In the new work, the researchers conducted a series of experiments with nuclear magnetic resonance using the example of a single antimony atom, an element whose nucleus has a fairly large intrinsic magnetic moment.

At the very beginning of the experiment, the antenna, whichwas supposed to create a magnetic field and control the rotation of the atom, exploded.  However, even after the antenna failed, scientists recorded resonant radiation.

“It turns out that after damage to the antennainstead of a magnetic one, generate a strong electric field. Thus we «rediscovered» nuclear electrical resonance. Our discovery means that scientists are now able to create quantum computers based on single atoms, without applying any magnetic field."

Andrea Morello, lead author of the study

Previously, physicists called ice the ideal fuel for a fusion reactor.