A BEC is a state of matter that occurs at very low temperatures, where a large number of particles (usually atoms) come together and behave as a single entity, exhibiting quantum behavior.
Rb is commonly used to make BECs because it is a highly reactive metal that has a low melting point and can be easily cooled to the temperatures required for BEC formation. Additionally, it has a simple atomic structure, making it easier to manipulate and observe in experiments.
Rb has a property known as a "Feshbach resonance," which allows for the manipulation of the interactions between atoms, making it easier to create a BEC. This property makes Rb one of the only elements that can be used to create BECs.
Yes, other elements such as sodium, lithium, and cesium have also been used to make BECs. However, Rb is one of the most commonly used elements due to its unique properties and ease of manipulation.
BECs made from Rb have potential applications in fields such as quantum computing, precision measurements, and as a tool for studying fundamental physics. They can also be used to create atom lasers, which have potential applications in interferometry and sensing.