Their attosecond system involves a powerful laser split into two components: a fast electron pulse and two ultrashort light pulses. The first light pulse, called the pump pulse, energizes a sample, triggering electron movement or other rapid changes. The second pulse, known as the optical gating pulse, creates a brief window to generate a single attosecond electron pulse. The timing of this gating pulse determines the image resolution. By precisely synchronizing these pulses, researchers can control when the electron pulses probe the sample, allowing them to observe ultrafast atomic-level processes.

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[–] ChihuahuaOfDoom@lemmy.world 7 points 2 months ago (3 children)

With this microscope, we hope the scientific community can understand the quantum physics behind how an electron behaves and how an electron moves.

Since I am totally ignorant, what's the practical benefit of this?

[–] ThePyroPython@lemmy.world 33 points 2 months ago (1 children)

Each time we peer into the quantum world we do a shit load of what is called Fundamental Research. This fundamental research leads to new discoveries in our understanding of quantum physics which then leads on to commercial research to apply these new discoveries to engineer new things.

What this new tool does is unlock a whole new batch of fundamental research that can be done which in turn will advance what we can build on top of it.

[–] Brickardo@feddit.nl 10 points 2 months ago (2 children)

So, in gaming terms, we're upgrading our gear to kill stronger bosses?

[–] NeatNit@discuss.tchncs.de 15 points 2 months ago

I would say instead: we unlocked a new research tree. We still need to research it, and once it's done, new gear will be available to buy.

[–] ThePyroPython@lemmy.world 9 points 2 months ago

Essentially, yes.

In Minecraft this is the equivalent of crafting a hoe which unlocks the whole of agriculture in the game.

Nobody knows what discoveries we'll make and what will grow from these discoveries. Exciting times.

[–] JWBananas@lemmy.world 7 points 2 months ago (1 children)

It may or may not have one, at least until we observe the results

[–] CaptainSpaceman@lemmy.world 5 points 2 months ago

But observing results skews results! Checkmate scientists

[–] just_another_person@lemmy.world 5 points 2 months ago (1 children)

Replicators and world peace.

[–] HairyHarry@lemmy.world 3 points 2 months ago* (last edited 2 months ago)

Replicators with subscription plans, depending on product classes and value and WW3.

So a simple Tea-Machine will cost you 15 Bucks/m but a cocktail mixer 4500,-