Stark Effect

The Stark Effect refers to the changes in the energy levels of atoms when they are exposed to an external electric field. In the context of hyperfine structure, which involves slight energy differences within atomic levels due to interactions between nuclear and electron spins, the Stark Effect can shift these energy levels, altering how atoms absorb or emit light. This effect can help scientists understand atomic structure better and is used in various applications, such as atomic clocks and precision measurements. Essentially, it highlights how electric fields can influence the very fabric of atomic behavior.