Abstract
Using a new type of ion trap, we demonstrate that the length of a packet of charged particles oscillating between two electrostatic mirrors will remain constant under special conditions. The effect can be understood in terms of phase synchronization, where, in a rather counterintuitive way, the repulsive Coulomb interaction between the ions actually holds the packet together. Application of this effect for mass spectrometry is discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 055001 |
| Pages (from-to) | 55001-1-55001-4 |
| Journal | Physical Review Letters |
| Volume | 87 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 30 Jul 2001 |
| Externally published | Yes |