Strongly Enhanced Effects of Lorentz-Symmetry Violation in Yb${}^{+}$ and Highly Charged Ions

Abstract

A Lorentz-symmetry test with Ca${}^{+}$ ions demonstrated the potential of using quantum information inspired technology for tests of fundamental physics. A systematic study of atomic-system sensitivities to Lorentz violation identified the ytterbium ion as an ideal system with high sensitivity as well as excellent experimental controllability. A test of Lorentz-violating physics in the electron-photon sector with Yb${}^{+}$ ions has the potential to reach levels of 10${}^{-23}$, five orders of magnitude more sensitive than the current best bounds. Similar sensitivities may be also reached with highly charged ions.

Comments: Presented at the Seventh Meeting on CPT and Lorentz Symmetry, Bloomington, Indiana, June 20-24, 2016