Toward a determination of the fine structure constant at LNE by means of a new Thompson–Lampard calculable capacitor

摘要

Abstract: This paper reports on the current development of a new Thompson–Lampard calculable capacitor at LNE. Thengoal is to determine the von Klitzing constant RK at a significant level of uncertainty of about one part in 108. The com-nparison with other accurate measurements of h/e2 serves as a relevant test of validity of the theory predicting RK = h/e2,andecisive issue within the context of the new SI. Conversely, assuming that this relation is exact, the measurement of RKnand thus that of the fine structure constant a can be used for testing quantum electrodynamics theory. The mechanicalnstructure of the new LNE calculable cross capacitor has been designed and a new set of electrodes has been fabricated.nThe assembling of the calculable capacitor is in progress.