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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.
Citation
Canadian Journal of Physics
Volume
87
Issue
7

Keywords

fundamental constants, Rydberg constant, quantum electrodynamics, hydrogenlike ions

Citation

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 March 28, 2024)
Created June 30, 2009, Updated October 12, 2021