Atomic Clock
13.06.2024
Atomic Clock
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For Prelims: About Atomic Clock, How does an atomic clock work? |
Why in the news?
Researchers have built a portable optical atomic clock that can be used onboard ships.
About Atomic Clock:
- It is a device that measures time using the vibrations of atoms.
- Specifically, it 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.
- They are far more precise than conventional clocks because atomic oscillations have a much higher frequency and are much more stable.
- They are used in many applications that require very precise timing, such as GPS systems, telecommunications networks and scientific research.
How does an atomic clock work?
тЧЛIt works by using a type of atom called a "cesium atom".
тЧЛCesium atoms are very stable and have a very specific frequency at which their electrons vibrate.
тЧЛThis frequency is used as the basis for the atomic clock's timekeeping.
тЧЛTo measure time using cesium atoms, an atomic clock uses a device called a "microwave cavity".
тЧЛThe microwave cavity is a chamber that is filled with cesium vapor.
тЧЛA microwave signal is then sent into the cavity, which causes the cesium atoms to vibrate.
тЧЛAs the cesium atoms vibrate, they emit radiation at a very specific frequency.
тЧЛThis frequency is then detected by a detector, which compares it to a standard frequency.
тЧЛThe difference between the two frequencies is used to adjust the clock's timekeeping.
- Types of atomic clocks: There are two types of atomic clocks: cesium atomic clocks and hydrogen maser atomic clocks.
тЧЛCesium atomic clocks are the most common and are used to define the international standard for time, called Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
тЧЛHydrogen maser atomic clocks are even more accurate than cesium atomic clocks and are used in scientific research.
Source: The Hindu
Ques :- Consider the following statements regarding Atomic Clock:
Statement-I
It is a device that measures time using the vibrations of atoms.
Statement-II
It is the most accurate time-keeping device available and used in many applications that require very precise timing.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.
B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.
C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.
D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.
Answer A