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Quantum Entanglement Speed Measured: Not Instantaneous, But Mind-Bogglingly Fast
In a groundbreaking finding that refines our understanding of the quantum realm, scientists at TU Wien university have successfully measured the speed of quantum entanglement. The findings, published in *Physical Review Letters*, demonstrate that this peculiar phenomenon, once believed to be instantaneous, actually occurs at dazzlingly fast, yet measurable, speeds [1].These processes are measured in attoseconds, equal to one-quintillionth (1,000,000,000,000,000,000) of a second.
Understanding Quantum Entanglement
Quantum entanglement is one of the most intriguing concepts in quantum physics. It describes a situation where two or more particles become linked in such a way that they share the same fate, no matter how far apart they are. This means that if you measure a property of one particle, you instantly know the corresponding property of the other, even if they are light-years away.
Joachim Burgdörfer,a professor at the Institute of Theoretical Physics at TU Wien,explained,”You could say that the particles have no individual properties; they only have common properties. From a mathematical point of view, they belong firmly together, even if they are in two entirely different places.”
Did You Know? Albert Einstein famously called quantum entanglement “spooky action at a distance” as it seemed to violate the principle that nothing can travel faster then light.
The attosecond Measurement
To determine the speed of quantum entanglement, the researchers at TU Wien had to first create an entangled state. They achieved this by bombarding atoms with high-intensity, high-frequency laser pulses. This process caused one electron to be ejected from the atom,sometimes affecting a second electron,causing it to enter a higher energy state while remaining bound to the atom’s nucleus.
Using two laser beams, the physicists demonstrated how the “birth time” of the departing electron is connected to the electron that remains. While the exact time is not precisely known, the research suggests that a higher energy state in the remaining atom correlates with the departing electron leaving earlier. In contrast, a lower energy state suggests a later departure, averaging 232 attoseconds in the latter case.
Iva Březinová, an assistant professor at the Institute of Theoretical Physics at TU Wien, noted, “The electron doesn’t just jump out of the atom. It is a wave that spills out of the atom, so to speak – and that takes a certain amount of time. It is precisely during this phase that the entanglement occurs, the effect of which can then be precisely measured later by observing the two electrons.”
Implications for Quantum Computing
As the world moves closer to a future powered by quantum computing, a deeper understanding of quantum entanglement becomes increasingly vital. Quantum computers leverage the principles of superposition and entanglement to perform complex calculations far beyond the capabilities of classical computers [2].
The ability to precisely measure and control the speed of quantum entanglement could lead to significant advancements in the design and efficiency of quantum computers. Understanding the nuances of entanglement helps researchers optimize quantum algorithms and improve the stability of quantum systems.
Pro Tip: Quantum computing is not meant to replace classical computing. Instead, it will be used to solve specific types of problems that are intractable for classical computers, such as drug discovery, materials science, and financial modeling.
Quantum Entanglement Timeline
| event | Description |
|---|---|
| Creation of Entangled State | Atoms are blasted with high-intensity laser pulses. |
| Electron Ejection | One electron is expelled from the atom. |
| Entanglement | The departing electron becomes entangled with the remaining atom. |
| Measurement | The “birth time” of the departing electron is connected to the state of the remaining atom. |
The Future of Quantum Research
The research conducted at TU Wien provides a crucial step forward in our understanding of quantum entanglement. By demonstrating that entanglement occurs at a measurable speed, scientists are paving the way for more precise control and manipulation of quantum systems. This breakthrough has the potential to unlock new possibilities in quantum computing, quantum interaction, and other quantum technologies.
What other quantum phenomena do you find most interesting? How do you think quantum computing will impact our future?
evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
Quantum physics emerged in the early 20th century as scientists grappled with phenomena that classical physics could not explain. Key figures like Max planck, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Werner Heisenberg laid the foundation for this revolutionary field. Quantum entanglement, first described in the 1930s, remained a theoretical curiosity for decades until technological advancements allowed for experimental verification.
Today, quantum research is a global endeavor, with significant investments from governments and private companies. The European Union, such as, has launched the Quantum Flagship program to position Europe as a leader in quantum technologies [3]. Countries like Japan are also making strides in quantum computing, with the launch of their third quantum computer [4].
FAQ About Quantum Entanglement
- What is quantum entanglement?
- Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more particles become linked,sharing the same fate no matter how far apart they are. Measuring the properties of one particle instantaneously influences the properties of the other, even across vast distances.
- How fast does quantum entanglement occur?
- While previously thought to be instantaneous, recent research has shown that quantum entanglement occurs at dazzlingly fast speeds measured in attoseconds (one-quintillionth of a second). This is still incredibly fast, but not instantaneous.
- Why is understanding quantum entanglement critically important?
- Understanding quantum entanglement is crucial for the development of quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and other quantum technologies. It allows scientists to harness the unique properties of entangled particles for advanced applications.
- What are attoseconds?
- An attosecond is an extremely short unit of time, equal to one quintillionth of a second (10^-18 seconds). These tiny fractions of a second are used to measure incredibly fast processes, such as the movement of electrons within atoms.
- How did scientists measure the speed of quantum entanglement?
- Scientists at TU Wien University created an entangled state by blasting atoms with high-intensity laser pulses. By observing the behavior of the emitted electrons, they were able to determine the timeframe in which entanglement occurs.
- What is the significance of this quantum entanglement speed measurement?
- This measurement refines our understanding of quantum entanglement, moving away from the idea of instantaneous action.It provides valuable insights for developing and optimizing future quantum technologies, potentially leading to more efficient and powerful quantum computers.
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