Understanding the physical processes that shape the world around us has always been a challenge for scientists, but the latest research from the University of Ottawa opens the door to an entirely new dimension of control over one of the most important phenomena in nature – ionization. This revolution in understanding how electrons detach from atoms could lead to a turning point in numerous technologies, including advanced imaging, the development of quantum computers, and improved methods of material analysis.

What is ionization and why is it important?

Ionization is the process in which an atom or molecule loses or gains electrons, thereby becoming a charged ion. This occurs under various natural and technological conditions – from the formation of lightning, through the creation of the aurora borealis, to the operation of X-ray devices and plasma screens. Until now, scientists believed that this process could only be controlled in a limited way, but new experiments in Ottawa prove otherwise.

Under the leadership of Professor Ravi Bhardwaj, in collaboration with PhD candidate Jean-Lucom Begin and a team of renowned physicists, researchers have managed to manipulate the process of ionization by using specially structured light beams, known as optical vortex beams. These beams not only carry energy, but also angular momentum, meaning they can precisely direct and influence electrons within atoms and molecules.

Revolutionary electron control using light

It was previously believed that ionization is a process solely dependent on the energy of light and the properties of atoms. However, a team from the University of Ottawa has shown that additional factors, such as the rotation of the light beam, can play a key role in controlling this phenomenon. By employing optical vortex beams, which behave like rotating whirlpools of energy, scientists have succeeded in directing the movement of ejected electrons in a way that was previously unimaginable.

The key element of this method is the ability to adjust the “zero-intensity region” within the beam. This area, where the light intensity is minimal, can be used for the selective ionization of certain atoms or molecules. This phenomenon, known as optical dihydroism, could have a significant impact on the development of precise technologies in medical diagnostics and industrial material analysis.

Practical applications and the future of technology

The possibility of precise ionization control could have far-reaching consequences in various scientific and technological fields. Some of the potential applications include:

• Advanced medical imaging – More precise ionization control could enable the development of more sophisticated imaging methods in medicine, reducing patients' exposure to harmful radiation.


• Quantum computers – Ionization plays a key role in the manipulation of quantum particles, and the new technique could allow for more precise control of quantum bits (qubits), significantly increasing the capabilities of quantum computing.


• Advanced material analysis – In industry, a better understanding of ionization can lead to more efficient methods for testing materials, improving manufacturing processes, and developing new materials with unique properties.


• The development of a new generation of lasers – Optical vortex beams open the door to innovations in laser technology, enabling more precise manipulation of light beams in industrial and scientific applications.

A new era in scientific research

The research from the University of Ottawa represents a significant breakthrough in understanding the interaction between light and matter. This discovery opens the door to new research in fundamental physics as well as in applied sciences, where ionization control could be used to advance numerous technologies.

As the world enters an era of quantum technology and advanced materials, precise manipulation of ionization could become key to the development of new innovations. The University of Ottawa, through its research, shows how it is possible to reshape our understanding of basic physical processes, thereby contributing to the technological advancement of the future.

Source: University of Ottawa