Strongly Enhanced Effects of Lorentz-Symmetry Violation in Yb$^+$ and Highly Charged Ions

Abstract

A Lorentz-symmetry test with Ca$^+$ ions demonstrated the potential of using quantum information inspired technology for tests of fundamental physics. A systematic study of atomic-system sensitivities to Lorentz violation identified the ytterbium ion as an ideal system with high sensitivity as well as excellent experimental controllability. A test of Lorentz-violating physics in the electron-photon sector with Yb$^+$ ions has the potential to reach levels of 10$^{-23}$, five orders of magnitude more sensitive than the current best bounds. Similar sensitivities may be also reached with highly charged ions.