In the continuing search for a theory unifying general relativity’s gravity with quantum mechanics, evidence suggests the universe retains a record of events in the geometry of curves that preserve the gravitational consequences of interactions from the tiny quantum to massive stars. We survey 30 years of discoveries pointing to the possibility of decoding probabilities at any scale.
Time crystals, a fascinating experimental phase of matter that promise greater precision in measurements, have the potential to revolutionize quantum technologies. Time crystals are among a number of important discoveries emerging in thermodynamics that will shape the future of our relationship with energy and our use of energy in rapidly evolving technologies.
Quantum teleportation is process that transfers quantum information between locations without moving the quantum bits. A novel method could achieve teleportation without the environmental noise that causes loss of connections in today’s quantum computers, by leveraging the properties of the noise itself. This could lead to fully functional quantum computers, and as a leading scientist explains, possibly the discovery of traversable wormholes.
Recent success in creating a time crystal that oscillates between two states for as long as 40 minutes without external stimulation holds the tantalizing prospect of precise quantum measurements. Achieving a time crystal that operates indefinitely could also revolutionize knowledge of matter by revealing what happens in the moment between changes in state, for example from gas to liquid, and possibly even a fundamental transition in the first moments of the universe.
As the cybersecurity landscape rapidly evolves, so does the imperative to prioritize digital rights and privacy. Innovative approaches are emerging, such as the use of Large Language Models for threat detection. While evolving technologies present both opportunities and risks, it is important to strike a balance between innovation and security as well as to address disparities in preparedness for emerging cyber threats. As awareness is increasing, we look at several of many organizations working to protect digital security and privacy.
Fractals are intricate patterns that repeat endlessly at different scales, and are found throughout nature in examples like snowflakes and river networks. Recent research shows that fractal patterns are also found in quantum materials, in our biological brains, and in artificial neural networks. Breakthroughs in many scientific fields are bringing us closer to solving the mysteries and potentially vast potential of fractal patterns.