Rubidium standard

Imagine you have a toy clock that you want to set to the correct time. But how do you know what the correct time is? You could ask someone who has a watch or check the time on your phone or a wall clock.

Now imagine scientists and engineers trying to make super-accurate clocks. They need a way to determine the correct time with very high precision. One way they do this is by using something called a rubidium standard.

Rubidium is a type of element that can give off very precise vibrations or "ticks." Scientists can take a small amount of rubidium and use it to control the ticks in a clock. The clock will then tick at the exact same rate as the rubidium.

To maintain the accuracy, rubidium standards need to be kept in very specific conditions, including a stable temperature and pressure. Scientists need to constantly adjust and monitor the system to make sure the clock is ticking at the right speed.

Overall, rubidium standards are extremely precise and can be used for a range of applications such as GPS, satellite communication, and scientific experiments. It helps us keep track of time accurately in ways that are important for many important aspects of our lives!