This experiment marks the first successful demonstration of atomic diffraction through a crystal grating. The secret lies in the energy dynamics of the atoms.

Scientists have observed “bending” atoms using a crystal grating—an experiment once believed impossible at the high energies required. The authors of a new, non-peer reviewed study detail ...

A preprint describing the experiment is available via arXiv and is yet to be peer-reviewed. [H/T: New Scientist] White light passing through a diffraction grating creates this pattern.

THE apparatus for this experiment consists of a slit and a grating. A slit may be made by ruling a line on a piece of smoked glass. The grating is made by slightly greasing the thumb and ...