The Quantum Physics of Real Life

[Andie]

http://phys.org/news/2016-04-scientists-quantum-physics-real-life.html

 

Quantum physics isn't an aspect for theorists alone. It applies to large objects as well as the minute.

This may begin to explain the phenomenon such as bilocation, either physical or mental.

 

Phys.org.-

Small objects like electrons and atoms behave according to quantum mechanics, with quantum effects like superposition, entanglement and teleportation. One of the most intriguing questions in modern science is if large objects – like a coffee cup - could also show this behavior. Scientists at the TU Delft have taken the next step towards observing quantum effects at everyday temperatures in large objects.

 

Coffee cup

But quantum mechanics also tells us that the same rules should also apply for macroscopic objects: a coffee cup can be on the table and in the dishwasher at the same time, or Schrödinger's cat can be in a quantum superposition of being dead and alive. This is however not something we see in our daily lives: the coffee cup is either clean or dirty and the cat is either dead or alive. Experimentally demonstrating a proverbial cat that is simultaneously dead and alive at ambient temperatures is still an open question in quantum mechanics. The steps taken in this research might allow to eventually observe 'quantum cats' on everyday life scales and temperatures.