= Radiofrequency pseudopotential of a Paul trap
{title2=$U_{\rm rf}=Q^2|\mathbf E_{\rm rf}|^2/(4m\Omega_{\rm rf}^2)$}
When the radiofrequency drive is much faster than the <Paul trap secular motion> and <Paul trap micromotion> is small, averaging the oscillatory force produces the displayed <effective potential>. The <electric field> here is its peak oscillating amplitude. It is an <energy>, not a static electrostatic potential, so confinement does not contradict the static electrostatic no-trapping theorem. Excess <Paul trap micromotion> from displacement from the radiofrequency null is distinct from the intended slow <Paul trap secular motion>.
Back to article page
