Quantum rotations of nanoparticles

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advances in controlling and observing quantum rotational phenomena in levitated nanoparticles, highlighting their potential for fundamental tests and ultra-precise sensing.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of experimental progress and future directions in quantum nanoparticle rotations, emphasizing new control techniques and applications.

Findings

Demonstrated exquisite control of nanoscale rotations

Set the stage for table-top tests of rotational superpositions

Highlighted potential for ultra-precise torque sensors

Abstract

Rotations of microscale rigid bodies exhibit pronounced quantum phenomena that do not exist for their center-of-mass motion. By levitating nanoparticles in ultra-high vacuum, researchers are developing a promising platform for observing and exploiting these quantum effects in an unexplored mass and size regime. Recent experimental and theoretical breakthroughs demonstrate exquisite control of nanoscale rotations, setting the stage for the first table-top tests of rotational superpositions and for the next generation of ultra-precise torque sensors. Here, we review the experimental state of the art and discuss promising routes towards macroscopic quantum rotations.