Italian scientists from the CNR have achieved a major breakthrough by transforming light into a supersolid, a state of matter that combines the characteristics of both a solid and a fluid. Through the interaction between photons from a laser and a semiconductor material, hybrid quasi-particles known as polaritons are formed, enabling a flow without resistance. This discovery challenges the boundaries of quantum mechanics and promises to enrich our understanding of quantum states.
The key points
- Italian scientists from the CNR discovered how to transform light into a supersolid.
- This supersolid combines the properties of a solid and a fluid with zero viscosity.
- The transformation uses photons from a laser on a semiconductor material.
- This discovery opens new perspectives on understanding quantum states and questions the limits of matter.
Italian scientists from the CNR transform light into “supersolid”
Italian scientists from the National Research Council (CNR) have made a significant advance by transforming light into a new state of matter, the “supersolid.” This achievement could revolutionize our understanding of quantum states. The supersolid presents a fascinating singularity: it combines the properties of a solid and a fluid, marking a significant step in the field of quantum physics.
The light transformation and its mechanism
The transformation process relies on the use of photons generated by a laser that interact with a semiconductor material. This photon-electron interaction is key to creating hybrid quasi-particles called polaritons. These quasi-particles result from the combination of photons and excitons, quasi-particles that form within materials according to the principles of quantum mechanics.
The characteristics of the supersolid
Supersolids are unique in their structure. They have an ordered crystalline structure while being capable of flowing with no resistance, implying a zero viscosity. This phenomenon challenges our traditional understanding of states of matter. The fact that a solid can behave like a fluid poses challenges to established theories.
The fundamental role of quantum mechanics laws
The laws of quantum mechanics help explain this ambiguous behavior of the supersolid, where the properties of a solid and a fluid coexist. This suggests that the boundary between solid and fluid matter is blurrier than previously imagined. This discovery could have major implications across various fields, especially in creating new technologies.
Perspectives and implications of this discovery
This advancement opens new perspectives on our understanding of quantum states. The phenomenon also relies on a finely etched “crest” pattern on the semiconductor, which is crucial for inducing this transformation of light. By questioning the limits of matter and its states, researchers could explore new concepts and scientific applications.
Precise measurements and future validation
Accurate measurements are underway to confirm the exact nature of the supersolid. These validations are essential to establish a solid foundation for this type of research. In the future, this transformation could lead to practical applications in advanced technologies, making this discovery even more promising for future developments in the field of physics.
