Laser cooling

Laser cooling is a technique used to reduce the motion of atoms or molecules, effectively lowering their temperature. By directing lasers at these particles, researchers can precisely manage the energy absorbed and emitted by the atoms. When the atoms absorb the light, they move faster; however, when they re-emit it, they emit it in random directions, resulting in an overall reduction in their speed. This cooling effect allows scientists to create states of matter not usually found at higher temperatures, enabling breakthroughs in fields like quantum physics and precision measurements.