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# Physics, miniature devices, stylus trap

The NIST "stylus trap" can hold a single ion (electrically charged atom) above any of the three sets of concentric cylinders on the centerline. The device could be used as a stylus with a single atom "tip" for sensing very small forces or an interface for efficient transfer of individual light particles for quantum communications.

*PHY, ion trap, stylus, miniature device

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June 30, 2009

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