High-Sensitivity Force Sensor
(ETH Zurich, June 28, 2017)
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new, high-sensitivity force sensor by levitating a silica nanoparticle in a laser beam. Precise control of the nanoparticle using laser light inside a vacuum minimizes the effect of environmental forces on the particle. Additionally, a high voltage circuit is used to zero the electrical charge on the particle to further reduce its sensitivity to disturbing electrical fields. Once this is done, the particle can be used to measure very weak forces, such as gravity and those generated by quantum phenomena.