Topic: Physics

A team of scientists has found a way to make tiny magnetic waves last much longer. This could help create super-powerful computers that are as small as a penny.

A team of physicists from around the world has made a major breakthrough in quantum computing. They have discovered how to make magnons, tiny magnetic waves, last much longer than before. These waves can carry information and are an important part of making super-powerful computers.

The scientists, led by Andrii Chumak of the University of Vienna, found that they could make magnons last up to 18 microseconds. This is nearly 100 times longer than they lasted before. They achieved this by using two special techniques. First, they made short-wavelength magnons, which are less sensitive to tiny defects on the crystal's surface. Second, they cooled ultra-pure spheres of yttrium iron garnet (YIG) to just 30 millikelvin.

The scientists were surprised to find that the lifespan of magnons is not limited by the laws of physics, but by the quality of the material they travel through. This means that future improvements in quantum computing will depend on developing even purer magnetic materials.

Why It Matters

This breakthrough could lead to the creation of super-powerful computers that are small enough to fit in your pocket. These computers could solve complex problems much faster than current computers and have many applications in fields like medicine, finance, and climate modeling.

Key Facts

• A team of scientists has found a way to make magnons last up to 18 microseconds.
• The scientists used two special techniques to achieve this breakthrough: making short-wavelength magnons and cooling ultra-pure YIG spheres to 30 millikelvin.
• The lifespan of magnons is not limited by the laws of physics, but by the quality of the material they travel through.
• Future improvements in quantum computing will depend on developing even purer magnetic materials.
• This breakthrough could lead to the creation of super-powerful computers that are small enough to fit in your pocket.

Key Terms

Magnons

Tiny magnetic waves that can carry information.

Quantum computing

A type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations.

Implications

This breakthrough could lead to the creation of super-powerful computers that are small enough to fit in your pocket. These computers could solve complex problems much faster than current computers and have many applications in fields like medicine, finance, and climate modeling.