Probing Fundamental Symmetries of Deformed Nuclei in Symmetric Top Molecules

Precision measurements of Schiff moments in heavy, deformed nuclei are sensitive probes beyond standard model T, P violation the hadronic sector. While most stringent limits on to date set with diamagnetic atoms, polar polyatomic molecules can offer higher sensitivities unique experimental advantages. In particular, symmetric top molecular ions possess K doublets opposite parity especially small splittings, leading full polarization at low fields, internal comagnetometer states useful for rejection systematic effects, and ability perform searches using a number trapped containing heavy exotic nuclei. We consider cation Ra225OCH3+ as prototypical candidate platform performing nuclear characterize detail its structure relativistic ab initio methods. The combination enhancements from nucleus, large polarizability, make this molecule promising search fundamental symmetry even single ion.Received 21 August 2020Accepted 24 November 2020DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.126.023003© 2021 American Physical SocietyPhysics Subject Headings (PhySH)Research AreasCold ultracold moleculesPropertiesElectric momentTechniquesAb calculationsPrecision measurementsAtomic, Molecular & Optical