Breakthrough: X-ray Laser Captures Atoms and Molecules in Action
The Linac Coherent Light Source at SLAC is the world's most powerful X-ray laser. Just two years after turning on in 2009, breakthrough science is emerging from the LCLS at a rapid pace. A recent experiment used the X-rays to create and probe a 2-million-degree piece of matter in a controlled way for the first time-a significant leap toward understanding the extreme conditions found in the hearts of stars and giant planets, and a finding which could further guide research into nuclear fusion, the mechanism that powers the sun. Upcoming experiments will investigate the fundamental, atomic-scale processes behind such phenomena as superconductivity and magnetism, as well as peering into the molecular workings of photosynthesis in plants.
- Research Organization:
- SLAC (SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC), Menlo Park, CA (United States))
- OSTI ID:
- 1131833
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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