Quantum and Us
Quantum mechanics is a relatively new field of study that investigates the behaviour of very small particles such as atoms and subatomic particles. While it may appear that quantum mechanics is only of interest to physicists and researchers, the truth is that it is already having a significant impact on our daily lives. Here are just a few examples of how quantum mechanics is changing the world around us, ranging from computing to medicine to energy.
Computing
Computing is one of the most promising applications of quantum mechanics. Unlike traditional computers, which store and manipulate data in binary form (using 0s and 1s), quantum computers store and process information using quantum bits (qubits). This enables quantum computers to perform certain calculations much faster than classical computers, potentially having far-reaching implications in fields such as cryptography and artificial intelligence.
While quantum computers are still in their early stages of development, researchers are making rapid progress. Google declared “quantum supremacy” in 2019, implying that its quantum computer had performed a calculation that was beyond the capabilities of any classical computer.
While much work remains to be done before quantum computers become widely available, the potential applications are enormous.
Medical Imaging
Medical imaging is also being impacted by quantum physics. For instance, radioactive isotopes are used in positron emission tomography (PET) scans to create images of the inside of the body. These isotopes can aid physicians in the detection and treatment of a wide range of medical diseases, including cancer and heart disease.
Quantum mechanics is employed to assist in the detection of these isotopes.
Quantum mechanics is applied in magnetic resonance imaging in addition to PET scans (MRI). MRI machines create images of the inside of the body using radio waves and powerful magnetic fields. The signals that the hydrogen atoms in the body produce are detected using quantum mechanics, which enables medical professionals to spot irregularities and disorders.
Energy
New energy technology development is also influenced by quantum physics. For instance, scientists are attempting to create quantum dots, which are extremely small particles capable of converting sunlight into electricity. Very effective solar cells that are far cheaper and simpler to construct than current solar technology could be made using quantum dots.
New kinds of batteries are being created using quantum mechanics in addition to solar cells. By studying material behaviour at the molecular level using quantum mechanics, researchers can find materials that have particular qualities like a high energy density or a long cycle life.
Cryptography
The discipline of secure communication known as cryptography is also being impacted by quantum mechanics. The development of secure, practically impenetrable communication channels is made possible by quantum mechanics. Significant ramifications flow from this for industries like finance and national security.
The topic of quantum key distribution is one of the most promising uses of quantum cryptography (QKD). Using quantum mechanics, QKD enables the secure transmission of encryption keys. Any effort to interrupt the transmission of a QKD key would be quickly discovered due to the peculiar aspects of quantum physics, making it virtually hard to hack.
Materials Science
The way we think about materials science is likewise changing as a result of quantum mechanics. To develop new materials with special qualities, such as superconductors and superstrong materials, researchers are employing quantum mechanics to examine the molecular features of various materials.
Quantum mechanics is also being utilised to examine the behaviour of fluids and gases, in addition to materials science. Researchers may simulate the behaviour of these materials at the molecular level using quantum mechanics, which can be used to find novel materials with special features or enhance already existing ones.
In conclusion, quantum mechanics is a discipline that is quickly altering our environment. The applications of quantum mechanics range from computation to medical imaging to energy to encryption to materials research.
