atomic beam deflector

An atomic beam deflector is a device that uses electromagnetic or optical fields to change the direction of a beam of atoms. Think of it like a boat changing course in a river; the device applies a force or field that nudges the atoms along a new path without physically touching them. These deflectors are useful in experiments and technologies such as precise measurements, quantum computing, and atomic microscopes, where controlling atomic motion with high accuracy is essential. They rely on the atoms' magnetic or optical properties to steer their trajectories in a controlled manner.