On the problems of creating a nuclear-optical frequency standard based on 229Th

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of using the 229mTh nuclear isomer as a basis for a nuclear-optical frequency standard, discussing resonance properties, optical pumping principles, and the challenges involved in developing laser-nuclear technologies.

Contribution

It introduces new insights into resonance electron-nuclear interactions and principles of optical pumping crucial for developing nuclear-optical clocks based on thorium-229.

Findings

Identification of key resonance properties of 229mTh

Analysis of optical pumping principles for nuclear states

Discussion of challenges in laser-nuclear technology development

Abstract

The most probable candidate for the role of a nuclear optical standard is the 8.338-eV isomer of the 229mTh isotope of the thorium nucleus. Ways of using the resonance properties of the electron shell as an optical resonator to create laser-nuclear technologies necessary for the optical pumping of nuclear isomers and other manipulations of atomic nuclei leading to the creation of a next-generation frequency standard and nuclear-optical clocks based on them are discussed. Deep relations between the physics of resonance electron-nuclear interactions and the true solution of the thorium puzzle are shown. The article discusses important principles of resonant optical pumping, such as the presence of a finite width in the intermediate electronic state, and others that are usually overlooked with a fatal result for the experiment. The wide application of the various physics of these processes will predetermine a revolutionary leap in the development of new laser-nuclear technologies.