What role does observation play in quantum theory?

Observation plays a central and intriguing role in quantum theory, influencing the behavior of quantum systems in ways that challenge classical intuitions. The concept of observation in quantum mechanics is deeply entwined with the fundamental principles of superposition, wave-particle duality, and the famous observer effect. Delving into the nuances of quantum observation requires an exploration … Read more

Are particles inherently random in quantum mechanics?

The question of whether particles are inherently random in quantum mechanics lies at the core of one of the most intriguing aspects of the quantum world. Quantum mechanics, developed in the early 20th century, introduced a probabilistic framework to describe the behavior of particles at the microscopic level. This departure from classical determinism has led … Read more

What is quantum entanglement?

Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics that remains one of the most intriguing and perplexing aspects of the quantum world. At its core, entanglement involves a unique connection between quantum particles, such as electrons or photons, where the state of one particle is directly linked to the state of another, regardless of the … Read more

Optical wireless revolutionized with shape-shifting light beams

The era of unimpeded optical wireless communication may be upon us, thanks to a collaborative study involving Politecnico di Milano, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Pisa, the University of Glasgow, and Stanford University. Published in Nature Photonics, the research introduces photonic chips capable of mathematically determining the optimal shape of light to navigate any environment, even … Read more

Quantum computers face fundamental limits due to clock precision

Various concepts for building quantum computers exist, sharing a commonality—they leverage quantum physical systems, like individual atoms, altering their states through specific forces for precise durations. However, ensuring reliable quantum computing operations necessitates an exceptionally accurate clock. The challenge arises from the inherent limitations of time measurement. Every clock exhibits two essential properties: precision and … Read more

What is a particle?

Particles are fundamental entities that form the building blocks of the universe, playing a crucial role in our understanding of the physical world. Ranging from subatomic particles to those composing celestial bodies, the concept of a particle spans a vast and intricate landscape in the realm of physics. At the heart of particle physics is … Read more

Quantum magnet breakthrough could revolutionize computing and data storage

In the realm of advancing data storage and computing speed, researchers are pioneering a new era of materials to meet escalating consumer expectations. Dr. Srinivasa Singamaneni, an associate professor in the Department of Physics at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), poses a critical question: “How can we design new materials so that … Read more

Scientists uncover quantum spin liquid behavior in new triangular lattice material

In 1973, physicist Phil Anderson hypothesized that the quantum spin liquid, or QSL, state existed on some triangular lattices, but he lacked the tools to delve deeper. Fifty years later, a team led by researchers associated with the Quantum Science Center headquartered at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has confirmed the presence … Read more

Physicists trap electrons in a 3D crystal, achieving electronic flat band for the first time

In the bustling world of electrons navigating through a conductive material, it’s like witnessing a rush hour scene in Manhattan. They may bump and jostle, but their journey is largely independent, each electron with its own energy. Yet, confine these electrons together, and they settle into a peculiar collective state known as an electronic “flat … Read more

Argonne achieves major milestone toward future quantum computing

Coherence is a fundamental element of effective communication across various domains, be it in writing, speaking, or processing information. This concept also extends to the realm of quantum computing, where quantum bits, or qubits, serve as the foundational components. The potential of quantum computers to address previously insurmountable challenges, such as climate prediction, material design, … Read more

Nondestructive measurement of ytterbium-171 qubits paves way for scalable quantum computing

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have made significant strides in the realm of quantum computing by harnessing the unique properties of ytterbium-171 atoms. In a recent study published in PRX Quantum, they unveiled a method for preserving ytterbium-171 qubits through nondestructive measurements, enabling these qubits to be used for complex quantum calculations. Ytterbium-171, … Read more

Physicists develop quantum eraser to correct errors in quantum computers

Quantum computers are a promising avenue for solving a wide range of problems, from developing sustainable materials and medicines to tackling complex issues in fundamental physics. However, compared to conventional computers, early quantum computers are more error-prone. It would be ideal if researchers could employ a quantum eraser to eliminate these errors, and a recent … Read more

Simulating time travel can solve experimental problems, say physicists

Physicists have demonstrated that simulating hypothetical time travel models can potentially help resolve experimental challenges that seem unsolvable within conventional physics. By manipulating quantum entanglement, researchers at the University of Cambridge have explored the concept of retroactively altering past actions, potentially offering advantages to gamblers, investors, and quantum experimentalists. While the idea of particles traveling … Read more

Quantum repeaters: The key to unlocking the power of quantum networks

The classic children’s game of telephone operates on a simple premise: one person starts by whispering a message to the next player, who then passes it along, and so on until the final recipient announces the message to the group. Often, what the initial person said and what the last person heard are hilariously different; … Read more

Ferromagnetic graphene superconductor junctions could enable new quantum computing applications

Humanity stands at the brink of two groundbreaking revolutions: one involving the emergence of 2-dimensional supermaterials like graphene, celebrated for their extraordinary properties, and the other, the advent of quantum computers, poised to outshine traditional computers in processing power. Understanding materials like graphene, composed of single atomic layers, opens the door to meticulous exploration of … Read more

New method overcomes barren plateau problem in quantum computing

A groundbreaking development has emerged from the research front led by Yumin Dong at Chongqing Normal University, unveiling an innovative technique for optimizing parametric quantum circuits, a fundamental element within variational quantum algorithms. This cutting-edge method ingeniously combines the prowess of gradient-free natural evolutionary strategy with gradient descent, effectively conquering the notorious “barren plateau” conundrum. … Read more

Researchers exceed theoretical limit for quantum technology

Researchers from the University of Stuttgart have achieved a remarkable feat in the realm of quantum computing and communication. They’ve demonstrated that a crucial component of various quantum technologies can operate with greater efficiency than previously believed possible. This breakthrough opens up exciting possibilities for the advancement of photonic quantum technologies. Quantum science has not … Read more

Quantum spin liquid survives disorder in new material

Quantum spin liquids are enigmatic states of matter that defy our everyday understanding of liquids like water or juice. Instead, they are related to the behavior of electrons in special magnets. In typical magnets, as temperature drops, electrons’ spins freeze and create a solid structure. However, in quantum spin liquids, electron spins remain in a … Read more

New method to control individual barium ions with high precision and low crosstalk

Researchers at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo have devised an innovative approach using laser light to control individual qubits made from barium. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in the quest for functional quantum computers. Published in the journal “Quantum Science and Technology,” their paper titled “A Guided Light … Read more

Machine learning could revolutionize quantum error correction

Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Quantum Computing have harnessed machine learning to tackle a crucial aspect of quantum computing – error correction. Their innovative autonomous correction system, despite its approximations, efficiently identifies the best methods to rectify errors in quantum computers. Unlike classical computers, which rely on binary bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers … Read more