Topological materials represent a fascinating subset of materials that exhibit unique electronic properties grounded in the convoluted nature of their wavefunctions. At the heart of these materials is the concept of topology—a branch of mathematics that scrutinizes the properties that remain invariant under continuous deformations. In the context of physics, when these materials meet their
Physics
The recent breakthrough by a research team from the University of Science and Technology of China represents a monumental leap in our understanding of quantum mechanics. For the first time ever, the team has conducted a loophole-free test of Hardy’s paradox, effectively bridging gaps in the realm of quantum nonlocality. Hardy’s paradox, conceived by physicist
The exploration of gravity has captivated scientists for centuries, acting as a linchpin in the framework of physics that bridges the expansive cosmos and the minute fabric of quantum mechanics. Recent advancements spearheaded by Igor Pikovski, a professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, have brought us closer than ever to detecting gravitons—hypothetical particles that are
The enigmatic state of matter known as plasma, which represents a unique phase occurring under extreme conditions, continues to intrigue scientists worldwide. Characterized by its high energy and the presence of electrically charged particles, plasma is fundamental in both cosmic and terrestrial phenomena. From the cosmic interplay of galaxies to terrestrial fusion devices called tokamaks,
Recent advancements in the field of precision measurement have unveiled a fascinating phenomenon—Fano resonance interference—exploited to develop a groundbreaking technique for suppressing magnetic noise. Under the leadership of Prof. Peng Xinhua and Associate Prof. Jiang Min at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), the research team has made strides in tackling the
In the realm of condensed matter physics, researchers continually explore the fundamental properties of particles and their interactions, seeking innovations that could transform technology as we know it. Among these pivotal particles are excitons, which are formed when an electron becomes excited and binds with a “hole,” or the absence of an electron, resulting in
Graphene, a two-dimensional material composed of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb lattice, has garnered immense interest due to its extraordinary electronic properties. However, the manipulation of its electronic band structure poses significant challenges. Conventional techniques, such as heterostructures and alloying, often fall short in providing a continuous and adaptable method for engineering band structures.
Recent breakthroughs in photonics and materials science are reshaping sensor technology, elevating detection and measurement capabilities to unprecedented heights. A notable development is the incorporation of non-Hermitian physics into sensor design, offering innovative strategies to manipulate light and enhance the sensitivity of detections. A key study featured in Advanced Photonics Nexus unveils a revolutionary sensor
Alzheimer’s disease has long posed a significant challenge to scientists, families, and healthcare providers. Traditionally, amyloid fibrils—fibrous protein aggregates in the brain—have been the main focus of Alzheimer’s research and treatment. These structures are often seen as hallmarks of neurodegenerative disease, leading researchers to target them in the development of new therapies. However, recent studies
Skateboarding, a sport that combines athleticism with artistry, has long intrigued scientists due to the complex physics at play. Recently, a collaborative team of engineers and mathematicians from ETH Zürich, alongside experts from The Institute of Statistical Mathematics and ATR Institute International in Japan, uncovered the intricacies of human movement on skateboards during half-pipe rides.
The world of laser technology has seen remarkable developments over the past few decades, especially in the creation of small, efficient lasers capable of generating red and blue wavelengths. However, the quest for high-quality miniature lasers that emit light in the green and yellow spectrum has remained a challenging endeavor, nicknamed the “green gap.” This
In the pursuit of more accurate timekeeping, scientists at the Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group, associated with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the University of Colorado, and Pennsylvania State University, have announced a significant advancement in atomic clock technology. The researchers have developed a sub-recoil Sisyphus cooling technique that markedly enhances the
The fabric of the universe is interwoven with fundamental laws, each seeking to explain the intricate dance of matter and energy that constitutes existence. In recent years, researchers have delved into complex theoretical frameworks such as string theory and loop quantum gravity, aiming to address the paradoxes presented by traditional physics. Among the most groundbreaking
The realm of quantum physics continually unveils new layers of complexity and potential, particularly within the domain of quantum entanglement. This phenomenon, where particles become interconnected such that the state of one directly influences the state of another, is foundational to many quantum technologies, including quantum computing and simulation. Recently, researchers at the Institute for
Recent advancements in quantum computing have brought to light a remarkable discovery by a collaborative research team that has identified what are believed to be the first multiple Majorana zero modes (MZMs) within a singular vortex of the superconducting topological crystalline insulator SnTe. This momentous finding, led by prominent scientists from the Hong Kong University
In the ever-evolving landscape of quantum physics, researchers continually uncover novel states of matter, revealing complex interactions and phenomena that challenge our understanding of the physical world. At the intersection of theoretical design and experimental engineering, recent advancements have given rise to an exciting new collective state of matter known as higher-order topological quantum magnets.