Laser spectroscopy to see the proton size. A complex laser system is needed to perform the muonic hydrogen experiment. The picture shows frequency doubling optics transforming infrared to green light.

Volume 10 Story 4 - 26/8/2010

Updating the Size of the Proton: Small Difference, Big Consequence

The proton, one of the building blocks of matter, is considerably smaller than previously measured — latest studies suggest. This result may well challenge our current understanding of nature.
How does the momentum of a photon change when it interacts with matter? Does it increase or decrease? Both viewpoint are actually correct, depending on which momentum is being considered.

Volume 10 Story 3 - 16/8/2010

Abraham vs. Minkowski 1-1

Does a photon gain or does it lose momentum when it enters a glass slab? Both may be the simple, yet ingenious answer to this centenary dilemma.
3D tomography of a nanoparticle. The 3D shape of a nanoparticle can be reconstructed from many 2D SEM images of the same. Once the 3D morphology of the nanoparticle is known, its optical response can be calculated with the algorithm developed by the researchers at the National University of Córdoba.

Volume 10 Story 2 - 27/7/2010

When Shape Really Matters

Particles in the nanoworld have mostly been modeled on unrealistically ideal shapes. A recent research takes advantage of a more complex and realistic model of the complex 3D shape of a nanoparticle.