This is the science behind the unimaginably quick attosecond pulses. The method can "photograph" electrons, giving us new insights into the inner life of atoms, and is the discovery that earned Anne L'Huillier this year's Nobel Prize in Physics.
Electrons move so unbelievably fast that they were long thought to be unobservable. Yet despite the difficulties, many researchers were determined to try in various ways. But why? Out of sheer curiosity, of course.
And also, because the knowledge could translate into practical benefits. If we learn more about nature's smallest building blocks, we can eventually control them. Since electrons control the properties of all materials - electrons are the atom's contact surface with the outside world - there is potential for their application in virtually all areas in which the aim is to influence materials at the molecular and atomic levels.
Future areas of application
Perhaps the laser method that creates these attosecond pulses might allow us in the future to better understand photosynthesis and create more efficient solar cell technologies. Or build electronics at the molecular level. Several medical applications have also been mentioned. Some tracks are already being worked on today while others are still at the idea - or dream - stage.
Back to the basic research. It is impossible to "see" an electron cloud in real-time, but thanks to attosecond pulses, electrons can be studied by the indirect imaging of some of their properties.
