Subscribe now

Physics

Strange quantum effect observed in unusually large object

An object made of hundreds of atoms exhibits a quantum property normally only associated with very small objects

By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan

21 April 2023

Quantum entanglement. Conceptual artwork of a pair of entangled quantum particles or events (left and right) interacting at a distance. Quantum entanglement is one of the consequences of quantum theory. Two particles will appear to be linked across space and time, with changes to one of the particles (such as an observation or measurement) affecting the other one. This instantaneous effect appears to be independent of both space and time, meaning that, in the quantum realm, effect may precede cause.

A concept image of a pair of entangled particles

Victor de Schwanberg/Science Photo Library

A quantum property associated with tiny objects has been found to persist in an experiment with more than a thousand atoms. This could help us understand where the boundary between the quantum world and the macroscopic world lies – if such a boundary exists.

The property for an object in question is two-fold: firstly, that its physical characteristics depend on whether it is being measured and secondly, that it can be influenced over long distances by another object without exchanging any known signals. …

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 14th June 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

1

Chaotically shifting planets could be a sign of advanced aliens

2

Mysterious sounds in stratosphere can't be traced to any known source

3

Which countries will do well at Eurovision 2023 – according to science

4

Emergence: The mysterious concept that holds the key to consciousness

5

The mental tricks you can use in your lifelong pursuit of happiness

6

Why the origins of life remain a mystery – and how we will crack it

7

Why the causes of poor mental health may share a common root

8

AI can work out how quantum computers stack up to one another

9

Having naturally high vitamin D levels may protect against psoriasis

10

Astronomers have spotted the biggest cosmic explosion ever seen