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2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the development of Quantum Mechanics, which is why the UN has set this year as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Britannica Encyclopedia describes quantum mechanics as "science dealing with the behaviour of matter and light on the atomic and subatomic scale". Through this designation, the UN hopes to bring awareness to the importance of quantum sciences to everyday life and to inspire all ages to explore the possibilities quantum technology can bring to the future. The study of quantum mechanics has led to many discoveries from understanding how light particles move, and how x-rays and other radiation affect atoms.
Studies into quantum mechanics have led to more accurate timekeeping using the Cesium clock. Before the development of the cesium clock time was based on the movement of the earth, which can vary greatly compared to the frequency created by cesium. To accomplish this cesium (an element) is put into a device that measures its transitioning between spin states due to electromagnetic radiation applied to it. This frequency is so stable that it is able to provide the standard of what a second should measure by how many occelations . Another application of the studies of quantum mechanics is the growing technology of quantum computing.
The difference between traditional computing and quantum computing is what the computer uses to store information. Quantum computers use superposition (combination of all possible positions) qubits which are quantum particles such as atoms, electrons, trapped ions, and photons. These qubits can have more than two results, unlike the binary bits that can only be 1 or 0. This means that Quantum computers can work on solving problems in a different way than the computers we use now. Our computers now have to look at a problem and solve every possibility, while a quantum computer can look at the entirety of a problem and use probability to choose the correct solution. Due to quantum computers needing to be kept extremely cold, they won't be replacing your computer at home but can be used in scientific studies to process data and run simulations much faster than current computers. Additionally, quantum computers can be used to add cybersecurity with their ability to create complex algorithms.
With this new year's focus on quantum science and technology, we all can learn a little bit more about this developing field of technology, once the events and initiatives start on February 4th, 2025. Visit https://quantum2025.org/en/ to see more about the United Nations initiative. See the NOVA documentary below to learn more in-depth about Quantum mechanics and the atomic Cesium clock and the development of an even more accurate atomic clock.
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