As chaos is exactly the opposite of order, no one would expect to see order in chaos. Though,this is what scientists observed in an intriguing experiment.
An international team composed, among others, of Jairo Velasco Jr and Zhehao ge, from the University of California at Santa Cruz (UCSC), and Eric Heller, from Harvard University, both institutions in the United States, managed to confirm a theory proposed by He first stated 40 years ago that electrons confined in quantum space would move along common trajectories rather than producing a chaotic jumble of trajectories.
Electrons have properties of both particles and waves: they do not fly like simple projectiles. Electrons behave in ways that frequently enough seem to defy logic, and under certain conditions their waves can interfere wiht each other in ways that concentrate their respective movements into certain patterns.
Generating and observing this phenomenon in Velasco Jr.’s lab required an intricate combination of advanced imaging techniques and precise control of the behavior of electrons in graphene, a material widely used in research due to its unique, two-dimensional structure. (because it is the thickness of an atom) makes it ideal for observing quantum effects.
In their experiment, Velasco Jr.’s team used the fine-tip probe of a scanning microscope to first create an electron trap and then approach a graphene surface to detect the electrons’ movements without physically disturbing them.
The quantum scar model captured in Jairo Velasco Jr.’s lab (Image: Velasco Lab)
The advantage of electrons following closed orbits within a confined space is that the properties of the subatomic particle are better preserved as they move from one point to another. This could have huge practical implications for everyday electronics, as it would allow the information encoded in the properties of an electron to be transferred without loss, possibly leading to more efficient and energy-efficient transistors. “One of the most promising aspects of this discovery is its possible use in information processing,” points out Velasco Jr. “By slightly altering these orbits, electrons could travel predictably through a device, carrying information from one end to the other.other”.
In physics, this phenomenon in the path followed by electrons is known as “quantum scars”.
Quantum scars, in addition to being usable for everyday electronics, constitute privileged windows into the strange quantum world, as Heller points out.
Velasco Jr, Ge, Heller and their colleagues present the technical details of their experiment in the academic journal Nature, under the title “Direct visualization of relativistic quantum scars in graphene quantum dots.” (Fountain: NCYT by Amazings)
How do quantum scars differ from classical electron behavior in graphene?
Interview with Jairo Velasco Jr.: Exploring Quantum Scars in Graphene and Their Implications for Electronics
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Jairo Velasco Jr.,and thank you for joining us today. Your recent research on quantum scars in graphene has created quite a buzz in the scientific community. Can you start by explaining what quantum scars are and why they are significant?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: Thank you for having me! Quantum scars refer to specific trajectories that electrons can follow in a confined quantum system, like graphene quantum dots. Unlike the chaotic pathways we might expect,these electrons can demonstrate ordered,repeatable movements. This finding sheds light on the quantum behavior of electrons and opens up new avenues for understanding quantum mechanics itself.
Time.news Editor: It’s engaging to think about how an inherently chaotic surroundings, such as that of electrons, can exhibit this order. What inspired your team to investigate this phenomenon?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: The idea of discovering order within chaos has intrigued physicists for decades. Our experiment was partly inspired by the theoretical framework proposed by Eric Heller 40 years ago. By applying our advanced imaging techniques to graphene, which is uniquely suited for observing quantum effects, we aimed to confirm Heller’s theory and explore its implications for quantum electronics.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned advancements in imaging techniques. Can you elaborate on how your team managed to visualize these quantum scars?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: Certainly! We utilized the fine-tip probe of a scanning microscope to create electron traps on the graphene surface,allowing us to observe electron movements without disrupting them. This method enables us to visualize the precise paths that electrons take, revealing the orderly orbits they can form, which we call quantum scars.
Time.news Editor: This brings us to the practical implications of your findings. How could these quantum scars affect the field of electronics?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: The ability for electrons to follow predictable, closed orbits could significantly enhance information transfer within electronic devices. If we can manipulate these orbits, we may improve the efficiency of transistors, leading to more energy-efficient devices. The potential for higher performance and reliability in everyday electronics is an exciting prospect for the industry.
Time.news Editor: That does sound promising. Given the growing importance of quantum technologies, what advice would you offer to aspiring physicists and engineers who want to explore this field further?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: My advice would be to engage deeply with both theoretical and experimental research. Understanding the fundamentals of quantum mechanics is crucial. Additionally, hands-on experience with cutting-edge materials like graphene will be invaluable. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams can also provide different perspectives and enhance innovation.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for those insights, Jairo. where do you see the future of quantum electronics heading, particularly in relation to your research on quantum scars?
Jairo Velasco Jr.: The future is very exciting! As we continue to explore quantum scars and their properties, we could pave the way for new quantum devices that leverage these unique electron behaviors. I believe we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. Advancements in this field could revolutionize how we process and transmit information, making way for smarter, more efficient technology.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, jairo, for sharing your expertise and insights on this groundbreaking research.
Jairo Velasco Jr.: It was my pleasure! Thank you for the conversation.