Candidate for Laser Cooling of a Negative Ion: High-Resolution Photoelectron Imaging of Th− (original) (raw)

Laser cooling of negatively charged ions has not been achieved due to challenges in finding suitable electric dipole transitions, but Th− is proposed as a new candidate based on experimental and theoretical studies. Electron affinities have been measured and calculated, revealing significant enhancements compared to previous values. The presence of strong electric dipole transitions in Th− indicates potential for successful laser cooling, with advantages over existing candidates due to its zero nuclear spin and lack of hyperfine structure.