Traps for Rare Isotopes

Abstract

Ion traps are widely used in fundamental and applied research. Over the past decade they have also gained significance as tools in experimental nuclear physics. They are used for precision mass measurements, which are important for a better understanding of nuclear structure and the nuclear synthesis of the elements, as well as for precise tests of fundamental interactions. They offer the possibility of textbook-like decay studies, where the nucleus decays in free space. Furthermore, stored ions can be cooled and manipulated in many ways. This is the key to improving the quality of rare isotope beams and for tailoring the beam properties to the needs of the experiments.