NOTICE: Due to a lapse in annual appropriations, most of this website is not being updated. Learn more.
Form submissions will still be accepted but will not receive responses at this time. Sections of this site for programs using non-appropriated funds (such as NVLAP) or those that are excepted from the shutdown (such as CHIPS and NVD) will continue to be updated.
An official website of the United States government
Here’s how you know
Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
Fundamental constants and tests of theory in Rydberg states of hydrogenlike ions
Published
Author(s)
Ulrich D. Jentschura, Peter Mohr, Joseph N. Tan, Benedikt J. Wundt
Abstract
A comparison of precision frequency measurements to quantum electrodynamic (QED) theoretical predictions can be used to test theory and to obtain information regarding fundamental constants. We find that for Rydberg states, theoretical uncertainties due to the problematic nuclear size correction are very small. With the help of QED calculations, the largest remaining source of uncertainty can be eliminated. Theoretical predictions, taking advantage of the latest theoretical results, in combination with planned experiments, can lead to an improved value for the Rydberg constant.
Jentschura, U.
, Mohr, P.
, Tan, J.
and Wundt, B.
(2009),
Fundamental constants and tests of theory in Rydberg states of hydrogenlike ions, Canadian Journal of Physics, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=900185
(Accessed October 7, 2025)