Scientists Discover a New Method to Control Ionization Using Twisted Light

Researchers have found a groundbreaking way to influence ionization—the process in which atoms lose electrons—by utilizing specially designed light beams.

By harnessing optical vortex beams, which carry angular momentum, they can precisely dictate how electrons are released from atoms. This breakthrough could transform imaging technologies, improve particle acceleration, and drive advancements in quantum computing.

Figure 1.Atoms Using Twisted Light.

Decoding Ionization

Atoms, the building blocks of all matter, sometimes lose electrons and become charged particles in a process called ionization. This phenomenon occurs in natural and technological settings, including lightning, plasma screens, and the aurora borealis [1]. Until now, scientists believed their ability to control ionization was limited.Figure 1 shows Atoms Using Twisted Light.

A research team led by Ravi Bhardwaj, a Full Professor at the University of Ottawa’s Department of Physics, and PhD student Jean-Luc Begin, in collaboration with Professors Ebrahim Karimi, Paul Corkum, and Thomas Brabec, has developed a novel approach to manipulating ionization using specially structured light beams.

Optical Vortex Beams: A New Frontier

Ionization is central to strong field physics and attosecond science, governing how electrons escape atomic bonds. Previously, scientists thought control over this process was minimal. However, this new study challenges that assumption.

“We have shown that optical vortex beams—light beams carrying angular momentum—allow us to precisely control how an electron is ejected from an atom,” says Professor Bhardwaj. “This discovery paves the way for technological advancements in imaging and particle acceleration.”

Experimenting with Light and Electrons

Over two years of research at the University of Ottawa’s Advanced Research Complex, the team found that the handedness and structure of optical vortex beams significantly impact ionization rates. By adjusting the position of a “null intensity region” within the beam, they achieved selective ionization, introducing a new concept called optical dichroism.

Key Findings:

• First demonstration of ionization controlled by light beams with angular momentum.
• Improved precision in ionization processes, opening possibilities for advanced imaging techniques.
• New insights into how engineered light can influence electron behavior in unprecedented ways.

A Breakthrough with Far-Reaching Implications

This research builds on foundational theories in physics and could revolutionize multiple fields. The potential applications extend beyond academic interest—this discovery may lead to enhanced medical imaging, faster computing, and innovative material studies [2]. In quantum computing, where controlling individual particles is essential, these findings are particularly significant.Professor Bhardwaj highlights the broader impact of this breakthrough:

“Reimagining how electrons are ejected has been a challenge, but our research demonstrates that advanced laser technologies can unlock new discoveries with far-reaching implications for both science and technology.”

References

1. https://phys.org/news/2025-03-physicists-optical-vortex-atom-ionization.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. https://interestingengineering.com/science/how-vortex-beams-affect-ionizaton-atoms

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025), Physicists Have Discovered a Method to Manipulate Atoms with Twisted Light, AnaTechMaz, pp. 144