Determination of the Neutron Lifetime using Magnetically Trapped Neutrons

Harvard University, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

Research will be carried out leading to an improvement in accuracy of the neutron lifetime. A new cooling and trapping technique (developed by the same researchers) will be used to aid in the measurment. The lifetime measurement will permit more precise tests of the standard model of electroweak interactions. The experiment will be carried out at the National Institute of Standards and Technology research reactor. This activity is multidisciplinary, bringing together low temperature techniques and nuclear physics techniques as well as understanding of condensed matter, molecular and nuclear phenomena. The methods being developed will also permit development of a new, intense source of ultra-cold neutrons for further nuclear physics studies and for future materials research studies. The lifetime measurement and the possible study of correlations in neutron beta-decay are high priority activities in contemporary nuclear physics and studies of fundamental symmetries. Improvement of existing state-of-the-art equipment is integral to this activity. Education of graduate and undergraduate students and postdocs is a strong component in every aspect of this grant.