Atomic clock

07.01.2025

Atomic clock

Why in the news?   

A "groundbreaking" atomic clock built at a top-secret UK lab will make military operations more secure through experimental quantum technology over the years.

About Atomic clock:

• It is a device that measures time using the vibrations of atoms.
• It specifically uses the oscillations of the electrons in atoms to keep time.
• It is the most accurate time-keeping device available, with a margin of error of just a few billionths of a second per day.
• It is far more precise than conventional clocks because atomic oscillations have a much higher frequency and are much more stable.

Working of Atomic clock :

• Atomic clocks work by using a type of atom called a "cesium atom".
• Cesium atoms are very stable and have a very specific frequency at which their electrons vibrate. This frequency is used as the basis for the atomic clock's timekeeping.
• To measure time using cesium atoms, an atomic clock uses a device called a "microwave cavity". The microwave cavity is a chamber that is filled with cesium vapor.
• A microwave signal is then sent into the cavity, which causes the cesium atoms to vibrate. As the cesium atoms vibrate, they emit radiation at a very specific frequency.
• This frequency is then detected by a detector, which compares it to a standard frequency.
• The difference between the two frequencies is used to adjust the clock's timekeeping.

Applications of Atomic clock:

• GPS systems:GPS systems use atomic clocks to measure the time it takes for a signal to travel from a satellite to a receiver on Earth. This allows GPS systems to calculate the receiver's location with great accuracy.
• Telecommunications networks:Telecommunications networks use atomic clocks to synchronize the timing of signals that are sent over long distances.
• Scientific research:Atomic clocks are used in many scientific experiments that require precise timing, such as studies of the behavior of atoms and molecules.

                                                                  Source: NDTV

Consider the following statements regarding Atomic clock:

1. It measures time using the vibrations of atoms.

2. It is used in telecommunications networks and GPS systems.

3.It specifically uses the oscillations of the electrons in atoms to keep time

How many of the above statements are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Answer C