Quantum Mechanics

Quantum Mechanics

DUNE neutrino detectors Neutrinos are still the most mysterious particle we know of
Nearly 100 years after being theorized, the strange behavior of the neutrino still mystifies us. They could be even stranger than we know.
A digitally rendered black hole with a dark center and a glowing, distorted ring of light surrounding it.
23 min
Brian Cox: The bizarre history of black holes
"Could black holes be the key to a quantum theory of gravity, a deeper theory of how reality, of how space and time works? Well, I think so."
black hole Even before the Big Bang, space wasn’t truly empty
All of the matter that we measure today originated in the hot Big Bang. But even before that, and far into the future, it'll never be empty.
Two identical, intricate, circular geometric patterns with symmetrical, multicolored lines and shapes are displayed side by side on a white background—each subtly reflecting the argument against theory of everything’s promise of perfect symmetry. The argument against the existence of a Theory of Everything
The Holy Grail of physics is a Theory of Everything: where a single equation describes the whole Universe. But maybe there simply isn't one?
A 3D potential energy surface with a central peak and surrounding valley illustrates zero-point energy power; two blue spheres indicate positions atop the peak and within the valley. Axes labeled Re(φ), Im(φ), and V(φ). Ask Ethan: Can “zero-point energy” power the world?
Throughout history, "free energy" has been a scammer's game, such as perpetual motion. But with zero-point energy, is it actually possible?
Are hidden variables real, and can they save quantum physics?
There could be variables beyond the ones we've identified and know how to measure. But they can't get rid of quantum weirdness.
parallel universe Ask Ethan: Are parallel universes and the multiverse real?
Parallel universes are among the most profound notions in all of quantum physics. It's a compelling and fascinating idea, but is it true?
The ultimate energy limit that lasers will never surpass
Amplifying the energy within a laser, over and over, won't get you an infinite amount of energy. There's a fundamental limit due to physics.
An older man in a suit and red tie sits on a chair against a white backdrop, with a colorful outer space scene in the background.
1 min
Michio Kaku wants to solve Einstein’s unfinished equation
“An equation, perhaps no more than one inch long, that would allow us to, quote, 'Read the mind of God.'”
Ask Ethan: Did our Universe really arise from nothing?
The Big Bang was hot, dense, uniform, and filled with matter and energy. Before that? There was nothing. Here's how that's possible.
quantum particles The Universe requires quantum fields, not just quantum particles
Realizing that matter and energy are quantized is important, but quantum particles aren't the full story; quantum fields are needed, too.
levitation The incredible physics of quantum levitation
With the right material at the right temperature and a magnetic track, physics really does allow perpetual motion without energy loss.