Physics Concepts Explainer

I updated my Schrödinger equation visuals. This time I included the unbounded inner product Gaussian in the first 2 animations, and used the more familiar localized inner product on the last. To review: The Schrödinger equation is one of the cornerstones of quantum mechanics, describing how the quantum state of a physical system changes over time. Here's a detailed explanation without using any equations: ### **Core Idea:** The Schrödinger equation governs the behavior of quantum systems, much like Newton's laws govern classical mechanics. Instead of predicting exact positions and velocities of particles, it tells us how the *probability amplitude* (a complex-valued function related to the likelihood of finding a particle in a certain state) evolves over time. ### **Key Concepts:** 1. **Wavefunction (ψ):** - In quantum mechanics, particles don’t have definite positions or paths. Instead, their state is described by a *wavefunction*, which contains all the probabilistic information about the system. - The wavefunction doesn’t tell us where a particle *is* but rather where it *might be* and with what probability. 2. **Time Evolution:** - The Schrödinger equation explains how the wavefunction changes with time. It doesn’t determine a single outcome but describes a smooth, deterministic evolution of probabilities. - If you know the wavefunction at one moment, the equation tells you how it will look in the next instant. 3. **Energy and Hamiltonian:** - The equation depends on the *Hamiltonian*, which represents the total energy of the system (kinetic + potential energy). - Different potentials (e.g., an electron in an atom vs. a free particle) lead to different wavefunction behaviors. 4. **Superposition & Quantization:** - The equation naturally leads to *superposition*—where a quantum system can exist in multiple states at once until measured. - For bound systems (like electrons in atoms), it predicts *quantized* energy levels, explaining why electrons occupy discrete orbitals. 5. **Uncertainty & Probabilities:** - The wavefunction’s square magnitude gives the probability density of finding a particle in a certain state. - Unlike classical physics, quantum mechanics is inherently probabilistic, and the Schrödinger equation encodes this randomness. ### **Analogy (Rough but Helpful):** Imagine a ripple spreading on a pond. The shape and motion of the ripple depend on the water’s properties (like depth and obstacles). Similarly, the Schrödinger equation describes how the "quantum ripple" (the wavefunction) evolves based on the system’s energy landscape. ### **Interpretations:** - The equation itself doesn’t explain *why* the wavefunction behaves this way or what it "really" is—that’s the realm of quantum interpretations (e.g., Copenhagen, Many-Worlds). #quantum #quantumphysics #quantummechanics #physics #math #engineering #programming #Schrödinger #science

Quantum physicists have just observed a phenomenon they’re calling “negative time” — and it’s challenging our understanding of reality. By using highly precise lasers to observe how photons interact with atoms, researchers measured how long atoms remain in an excited state after absorbing light. Surprisingly, some measurements suggested that this duration was less than zero — hinting that, in quantum mechanics, an event could theoretically “finish” before it even starts. To visualize this puzzling idea, think of cars going through a tunnel. Normally, a car exits the tunnel shortly after it enters. But early data seemed to show a few cars emerging before they ever went in — results once dismissed as mere noise. In this recent experiment, however, scientists were able to detect these “negative durations” in a quantifiable way. One researcher compared it to measuring carbon monoxide levels that aren’t just low, but negative — something that seems impossible. This doesn’t mean time travel or a violation of Einstein’s theories is happening. The photons aren’t moving faster than light or sending information backward through time. Instead, the anomaly is rooted in the quirks of quantum phase and probability. While some experts believe “negative time” might be an overly dramatic label, the team says it brings attention to a real gap in our understanding of how light behaves on the quantum scale — particularly when photons don’t act like tidy particles moving at steady speeds. Though there’s no practical use yet, this finding is more of a theoretical and philosophical leap, sparking fresh debates about the nature of time in the quantum world. As physicist Aephraim Steinberg puts it, “We’ve made our choice about what we think is a fruitful way to describe the results” — and it’s opening the door to deep, new questions about what reality really is. Learn more https://lnkd.in/dnYWNKsw

“Everything there is, including such seemingly fundamental things as space and time, fragment out of a unified whole. This might sound like philosophy or mysticism, but it is in fact a direct result of applying quantum mechanics to the entire cosmos. When you do that, you realise that the universe isn’t fundamentally made of separate parts at all, but is instead a single, quantum object.” https://lnkd.in/eSG7pkaA

In the well-known double-slit experiment, electrons exhibit wave-like behavior when not being measured, producing an interference pattern on the detection screen. But when we attempt to determine which slit an electron goes through, that pattern disappears, and the electrons behave like particles. This shift is not due to electrons “knowing” they’re being watched. Instead, it’s a fundamental consequence of quantum measurement. According to quantum mechanics—specifically the Copenhagen interpretation and the uncertainty principle—observing a quantum particle requires interaction. To detect an electron’s path, we use photons, which carry energy. Since electrons are extremely small, even a single photon can significantly disturb their motion or momentum, effectively collapsing their wave function into a definite state. This collapse destroys the superposition—the state where an electron exists in multiple possible paths—and eliminates the interference pattern. The act of measurement turns a probability wave into a single, classical outcome. This isn't mysticism or magic. It's a well-documented quantum phenomenon with decades of experimental support. Measurement affects quantum systems—not because of observation in the human sense, but because of unavoidable physical interaction. It's not magic. It's quantum physics.

🌟 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐦 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐕𝐋𝐒𝐈 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 [𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐩] The tech world is on the brink of a paradigm shift—Quantum Computing is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s becoming reality. For those in VLSI and embedded systems, the emergence of quantum computing represents an exciting yet challenging transition. Are you ready to embrace this revolution? Quantum computers promise unparalleled computational power, redefining industries like cryptography, materials science, and AI. As the hardware landscape evolves, quantum-enhanced VLSI design and embedded systems for quantum devices are rapidly gaining importance. If you want to future-proof your career, now is the time to start learning. Roadmap to Be Job-Ready in Quantum Computing for VLSI and Embedded Roles 1️⃣ Understand the Basics • Learn the principles of quantum mechanics: qubits, superposition, and entanglement. • Explore introductory resources to grasp how quantum computing differs from classical computing. 📖 Quantum Computing for Everyone (MIT Press) 📖 Quantum Computing Fundamentals - Coursera 2️⃣ Dive into Quantum Programming • Learn quantum-specific programming languages like Qiskit, Cirq, and PyQuil. • Experiment with platforms like IBM Quantum Experience and Google Cirq. 📖 Qiskit Textbook 📖 Quantum Computing and Programming - Udemy 3️⃣ Understand Hardware Implications • Study quantum hardware systems and their requirements. • Focus on how quantum concepts impact semiconductor design, low-power circuits, and reliability in embedded systems. 📖 Introduction to Quantum Hardware - IBM 4️⃣ Bridge VLSI with Quantum • Learn about quantum-enhanced VLSI design and chip architecture. • Explore cryogenic CMOS, superconducting qubits, and error correction methods. 📖 Advancing Quantum Hardware - IEEE Papers 5️⃣ Develop Embedded Expertise • Understand the role of embedded systems in controlling quantum devices. • Focus on microcontroller interfaces, signal processing, and timing synchronization. 📖 Embedded Systems and Quantum Devices - EdX 6️⃣ Build Hands-On Experience • Collaborate on open-source quantum projects. • Participate in quantum hackathons to apply your skills. 🌐 Quantum Hackathons 7️⃣ Stay Updated • Follow advancements in quantum hardware and their impact on VLSI and embedded domains. • Join forums, attend conferences, and network with experts in the quantum space. 𝑲𝒆𝒚 𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚👇 The integration of quantum computing with VLSI and embedded systems is inevitable. The skills you develop today could position you at the forefront of this transformation tomorrow. Are you ready to embrace the quantum leap? Let’s discuss and share resources to navigate this exciting journey! #QuantumComputing #VLSI #EmbeddedSystems #FutureOfTech #CareerGrowth

Can STRATEGY learn anything from QUANTUM MECHANICS? Quantum mechanics offers valuable insights for strategic leadership in today's complex and uncertain business environment. Here's how we can apply quantum principles to enhance our leadership approach: 1]. EMBRACING UNCERTAINTY AND POSSIBILITY In quantum mechanics, particles exist in multiple states simultaneously until observed. Similarly, strategic leaders must embrace uncertainty and consider multiple possibilities. Instead of rigid, deterministic planning, we should: - Envision multiple potential outcomes for any situation - Explore diverse approaches with input from various stakeholders - Maintain flexibility to pivot as circumstances evolve This "superposition" mindset allows us to thrive on uncertainty and foster innovation at the "edge of chaos". 2]. THE POWER OF OBSERVATION AND INTENTION Just as observing quantum particles affects their state, a leader's focus shapes organizational reality. We must be mindful of our "observer effect" by: - Cultivating awareness of our perceptual biases - Intentionally creating a positive organizational culture - Balancing focus between efficiency (exploiting) and effectiveness (exploring) Our attention and expectations have ripple effects throughout the organization. 3]. INTERCONNECTEDNESS AND EMERGENCE Quantum entanglement demonstrates the interconnected nature of particles. In leadership, this translates to: - Fostering strong relationships and networks within teams - Recognizing that small actions can have far-reaching impacts - Allowing for bottom-up, self-organizing structures to emerge By cultivating a high "connectivity quotient," we can create teams that perform beyond the sum of their parts. 4]. ADAPTING TO COMPLEXITY Quantum uncertainty challenges traditional, linear planning. To lead effectively in complex systems: - Adopt an adaptive, learning-oriented approach to strategy - Encourage experimentation and "quantum tunneling" to overcome barriers - Focus on creating conditions for innovation rather than rigid objectives. By embracing these quantum principles, we can develop a more nuanced, flexible, and effective approach to strategic leadership in our rapidly changing world.

Quantum entanglement is one of the most mind-bending concepts in modern physics. When two particles become entangled, they remain mysteriously connected, no matter how far apart they are—even across galaxies. A change in one particle instantly affects the other, defying the known laws of time, space, and even the speed of light. Einstein famously called this phenomenon “spooky action at a distance,” because it seemed impossible within classical physics. Yet repeated experiments have proven entanglement is real and measurable. Scientists can now use it to create ultra-secure communication channels and explore the foundations of reality itself. The implications are staggering. Quantum entanglement could form the backbone of future quantum internet, allowing instant data transfer without risk of hacking. It may also help explain deeper mysteries of the universe, including black holes and the fabric of spacetime. Though still at the edge of human understanding, entanglement challenges us to rethink everything we know about cause, effect, and distance. It’s not just science fiction—it’s the strange, beautiful reality of our quantum world.

Why are superconducting qubits so often stuck with lifetimes in the tens or hundreds of microseconds? For years, this has felt like a hard ceiling for the platform. Now, it looks like we are finally moving past this. A new Nature paper from the labs of Andrew Houck and Nathalie de Leon at Princeton University shows transmon qubits that push past this ceiling. The results are remarkable: • 𝗧𝟭 (𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲): Reaching a maximum of 𝟭.𝟲𝟴 𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘀. • 𝗧𝟮𝗘 (𝗖𝗼𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲): Achieving T2E > T1 for the best junctions, with an average of 𝟭.𝟮 𝘅 𝗧𝟭. • 𝗙𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: Single-qubit gates at 𝟵𝟵.𝟵𝟵𝟰% 𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 with only simple DRAG tuning.    There is no single trick. It’s a new material "recipe" where every ingredient was systematically chosen to eliminate a known source of loss. So how did they do it? 𝟭. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 They moved from the Tantalum-on-sapphire platform to 𝗧𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗺 𝗼𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻 (𝗦𝗶). This appears to be the key. We know sapphire has a bulk dielectric loss that can limit T1. By switching to Si, the team "markedly decrease[s] the bulk substrate loss," suggesting the limit was indeed the material, not just the transmon design. 𝟮. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 With T1 in the millisecond range, decoherence from the Josephson junction (JJ) becomes the new bottleneck. The team tackled this by moving their Al/AlOx junction fabrication to an 𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝘃𝗮𝗰𝘂𝘂𝗺 (𝗨𝗛𝗩) 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿. This is a crucial step to avoid the hydrocarbon contamination common in standard HV evaporators. The result was a significant jump in T2E, but surprisingly, not in T1. 𝟯. 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 This breakthrough isn't just about a single, isolated 'hero' qubit. They report these results across 𝟰𝟱 𝗾𝘂𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀. The Ta-on-Si platform is a robust material stack compatible with wafer-scale fabrication, making it a blueprint that can be "readily translated to large-scale quantum processors". Why This Matters: The Next Bottleneck is Exposed This platform is so clean it finally exposes the next layer of bottlenecks: 𝗽𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝗶𝘀𝗲 in the readout resonator and 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀 (𝗧𝗟𝗦𝘀), most likely from the amorphous tantalum oxide. This gives us a clear roadmap: the next breakthroughs will likely come from new readout schemes and further materials science to protect the tantalum surface. 📸 Credits: Matthew Bland, Faranak Bahrami et al. (Nature, 2025)

#QuantumEntanglement #QuantumPhysics Quantum entanglement is one of the strangest and most mind-bending phenomena in physics. When two particles become entangled, measuring the state of one instantly determines the state of the other — no matter how far apart they are. Recent experiments have pushed this mystery even further, showing that the “influence” connecting entangled particles occurs at speeds at least 10,000 times faster than light, suggesting that traditional limits of space and time don’t govern these interactions. Scientists emphasize that entanglement doesn’t transmit usable information faster than light, meaning Einstein’s theories aren’t violated. Instead, the phenomenon reveals that reality has deeper layers where the classical rules simply don’t apply. Researchers now believe that entangled particles may share a hidden link — a non-local connection embedded in the structure of the universe itself — allowing them to coordinate instantaneously in ways we still don’t fully understand. This doesn’t just reshape physics textbooks; it opens the door to revolutionary technologies. Quantum computers rely on entanglement to perform calculations that would take normal computers thousands of years. Quantum communication networks could offer ultra-secure messaging, since any attempt to intercept data breaks the entangled state. And experiments in quantum teleportation — transferring the state of a particle across distance — are advancing every year. The more we explore entanglement, the more it challenges our understanding of reality itself.

Silicon hardware is hitting fundamental performance limits in terms of joules-per-flop. Do Data Centers get bigger indefinitely? No. We need a new computing substrate - here's a quick breakdown on the frontiers of computing physics: 1. Photonic computing – math at the speed of light Lightmatter ($850 M) | Celestial AI ($515 M) | Ayar Labs ($370 M) | Luminous Computing ($106 M) + Where it tops out now: Commercial cards such as Lightmatter Envise and China’s ACCEL chip routinely show 150–160 TOPS per watt, already ~5–6× an H100 GPU. Bench demos at Tsinghua reach >300 TOPS/W in small arrays. + Physics ceiling: The ultimate floor is the quantum shot-noise limit (~10 zJ per multiply-accumulate). With wavelength-division multiplexing, photonics can theoretically hit >10 PetaOPS/W for 8-bit MACs before quantum noise dominates. + Near-term chokepoints: on-chip lasers burn static power; modulators and ADCs still sit in CMOS; waveguide footprints (µm scale) cap density to ~10 M “neurons” per cm². + Road-map potential (5-15 yr): moving lasers off-chip + tighter 3D photonic-electronic stacks should enable >1 POPS/W inference boxes and slash DRAM traffic by using light for rack-scale interconnect. 2. Analog-in-memory AI – move the compute to the data EnCharge AI ($144 M) | Mythic ($178 M) + Where it is: EnCharge AI boards deliver 150 TOPS/W today; a finer process taped-out this spring hit 650 TOPS/W in lab silicon. Fanatical Futurist Fundamental limits: Energy is set by charge-discharge of tiny capacitors in SRAM cells; at the Landauer limit (kT ln2) that’s ≈ 3 zJ per 8-bit MAC. Practical noise/ADC overhead pushes the floor to ~100 zJ, so 1 PetaOPS/W is technically reachable. + Bottlenecks: ADC/DAC slices still dominate power at high precision, and device mismatch drifts with temperature. Path forward: 6-8-bit “good-enough” networks + periodic digital recalibration, plus stacking compute-SRAM layers, point to sustained 10× efficiency every ~5 years. + SRAM or flash arrays perform MACs in-situ; prototypes reach 150 TOPS/W. Eliminates up to 90 % of the energy now wasted shuttling weights to cores. 3. Neuromorphic chips – brains in silicon BrainChip (AU-listed, A$21 M raise) | SynSense ($43 M | Innatera ($43 M) Tracxn +State of the art: Intel’s Hala Point cluster (1.15 B neurons) delivers 20 peta-spike-ops/s at >15 TOPS/W on dense CNNs and 100× CPU efficiency on sparse sensory tasks. + Hard stops: Event-driven logic can, in principle, drop to a single spike ≈ 40 zJ, but wire capacitance and leakage in sub-threshold CMOS set a floor near 1 aJ/spike. That still implies >100 PetaOPS/W in large, sparse nets. + Key hurdles: compiling mainstream transformer models into spike form; on-chip learning algorithms; network-on-chip congestion at billion-neuron scale.