Quantum physics is a fascinating branch of science that explores the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales of our universe. Imagine a world where objects can exist in multiple places at once, where “entangled” particles separated across vast distances have intertwined fates, and where the very act of observing something can change its nature. This is the strange and captivating realm of quantum physics.
Quantum physics is the foundation of much of the technology we use today, and its principles shape our understanding of the universe at the smallest scales. This article will break down quantum physics in a way that is simple, approachable, and hopefully, a little fun.
Quantum physics is the science of how the universe behaves at the smallest scales—think atoms, electrons, and photons (particles of light) and the coldest temperatures (around what is referred to as “absolute zero”, beyond which there is nothing colder). It’s a branch of science that allows us to understand and predict the behavior of particles that are so tiny, we can’t see them with the naked eye or most microscopes. Unlike the world we see around us, which is referred to as “Classical Physics” these particles don’t behave in ways we’d expect. Instead, they follow their own set of rules, which often seem bizarre to us humans living at human temperatures and sizes. For example:
To us “Classical” beings, these ideas are strange, but they’ve been confirmed by countless experiments and are at the heart of technologies we use every day (we’ll explore these in more detail in the next blog).
Quantum physics emerged in the early 20th century as scientists struggled to explain behaviors they observed that could not be explained by classical physics. Some key moments include:
Our understanding and our “ability to exploit” the quantum world continue to evolve, enabling technologies and informing philosophies.
Quantum physics isn’t just a theoretical exercise for scientists; it’s the backbone of modern technology. Without it, we wouldn’t have:
More importantly, quantum physics is paving the way for revolutionary advancements, including quantum computing and quantum networking. These technologies have the potential to transform industries like healthcare, finance, and cybersecurity.
Did you know that you’re already using quantum physics in your daily life? Here are a few examples:
Think of the quantum world as a playground. In the classical world, we experience a ball rolling down a slide in one predictable path. You can see where it is and where it’s going at any given moment. In the quantum world, however, the ball can roll down multiple paths at once—until someone looks at it. The act of observing the ball forces it to “choose” a path. This is a key feature of quantum mechanics and one of the reasons it’s so fascinating (and confusing!).
Understanding quantum physics isn’t just for scientists or academics. It’s becoming increasingly important for policymakers, business leaders, and everyday people to grasp its basics. Why? Because the next wave of innovation—whether in technology, medicine, or national security—will be powered by quantum principles.
Here are some exciting possibilities on the horizon:
One of the biggest challenges in quantum physics is making it accessible. For a long time, it’s been seen as the domain of physicists and mathematicians. But as quantum technologies move from the lab to real-world applications, it’s crucial for everyone—especially decision-makers—to understand its implications. The good news is you don’t need a degree in physics to appreciate its beauty and potential—just a little curiosity and an open mind.
This blog is part of QED-C’s Quantum 101 series. In these blogs, we’ll unpack the concepts, applications, and exciting possibilities of quantum. Stay tuned for the next post, where we’ll demystify terms like superposition, entanglement, and uncertainty.