Quantum mechanics theory was first developed a hundred years ago. One of the most interesting key concepts of it is the quantum leap, which involves small jumps between two quantum states that happen so fast that many used to believe they were instantaneous.
A recent experiment conducted by a team of researchers at Yale University proves that quantum leaps are not, in fact, instantaneous. The study, led by Zlatko Minev, shows how the process is gradual.
Even more, using a high-speed monitoring system, the researchers were able to determine when a quantum jump was about to happen and reverse it mid-process. This is revolutionary, as it proves that we can have control over the quantum.
Over time, many scientists attempted experiments involving the quantum leap. In these experiments, the jumps appeared to be sudden and random.
Quantum Mechanics Study Revealed That Quantum Leaps Are Not Instantaneous
By comparison, the Yale team managed to create a setup that allowed them to predict a jump and observe it. They determined that jumps between quantum states happen for a few microseconds, which is extremely fast, but indeed not instantaneous.
Scientists were able to reverse the process by sending a pulse of photons that prevented the quantum leap from happening. Experts believe the discoveries of this study can find applications in error correction for quantum computing. However, to reach this level of control, it will require a lot of measurement data collecting.
After all, the real value of the results of this study is not in practical benefits. The most important aspect is that we learn more about the processes involved in the quantum world.
As scientists predicted in the past, these processes happen randomly, but they are not actually instantaneous.
Doris’s passion for writing started to take shape in college where she was editor-in-chief of the college newspaper. Even though she ended up working in IT for more than 7 years, she’s now back to what he always enjoyed doing. With a true passion for technology, Doris mostly covers tech-related topics.