Atomic Clocks and the Search for Variation of the Fine Structure Constant

2004/07/28 by Elizabeth Angstmann, V. A. Dzuba, Angstmann, E. J. +3
Decision Sciences · Physics and Astronomy · #Advanced Frequency and Time Standards #Atomic Physics (physics.atom-ph) #FOS: Physical sciences #Radioactive Decay and Measurement Techniques #Scientific Measurement and Uncertainty Evaluation

paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.physics/0407141

openalex publication_date 2004/07/28 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

Evidence that the fine structure constant, alpha, was different in an early epoch has recently been found in quasar (QSO) absorption spectra. An accurate laboratory measurement of alpha variation could help to distinguish between space and time variation of alpha and possibly confirm the QSO results. We have performed calculations of the relativistic energy shifts that a variation of alpha would cause in a wide range of atomic spectra. A laboratory measurement of how these transition frequencies vary over time is vital in determining whether alpha is varying today.

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