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Harnessing the Void: MIT Controls Quantum Randomness For the … – SciTechDaily

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

By Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Institute for Soldier NanotechnologiesSeptember 9, 2023

MIT researchers have successfully controlled quantum randomness using vacuum fluctuations, introducing a breakthrough in probabilistic computing with potentially wide-ranging applications.

Groundbreaking study demonstrates control over quantum fluctuations, unlocking potential for probabilistic computing and ultra-precise field sensing.

A team of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has achieved a milestone in quantum technologies, demonstrating for the first time the control of quantum randomness.

The team of researchers focused on a unique feature of quantum physics known as vacuum fluctuations. You might think of a vacuum as a completely empty space without matter or light. However, in the quantum world, even this empty space experiences fluctuations or changes. Imagine a calm sea that suddenly gets waves thats similar to what happens in a vacuum at the quantum level. Previously, these fluctuations have allowed scientists to generate random numbers. Theyre also responsible for many fascinating phenomena that quantum scientists have discovered over the past hundred years.

Experimental setup to generate tunable random numbers from vacuum fluctuations. Credit: Charles Roques-Carmes, Yannick Salamin

The findings were described recently in the journal Science, in a paper led by MIT postdoctoral associates Charles Roques-Carmes and Yannick Salamin; MIT professors Marin Soljai and John Joannopoulos; and colleagues.

Conventionally, computers function in a deterministic manner, executing step-by-step instructions that follow a set of predefined rules and algorithms. In this paradigm, if you run the same operation multiple times, you always get the exact same outcome. This deterministic approach has powered our digital age, but it has its limitations, especially when it comes to simulating the physical world or optimizing complex systems, tasks that often involve vast amounts of uncertainty and randomness.

Artistic illustration of the generation of tunable random numbers from the quantum vacuum. Credit: Lei Chen

This is where the concept of probabilistic computing comes into play. Probabilistic computing systems leverage the intrinsic randomness of certain processes to perform computations. They dont just provide a single right answer, but rather a range of possible outcomes each with its associated probability. This inherently makes them well-suited to simulate physical phenomena and tackle optimization problems where multiple solutions could exist and where exploration of various possibilities can lead to a better solution.

Dr. Charles Roques-Carmes, one of the lead authors of the work, operating the experimental system. Credit: Anthony Tulliani

However, the practical implementation of probabilistic computing has been hampered historically by a significant obstacle: the lack of control over the probability distributions associated with quantum randomness. However, the research conducted by the MIT team has shed light on a possible solution.

Specifically, the researchers have shown that injecting a weak laser bias into an optical parametric oscillator, an optical system that naturally generates random numbers, can serve as a controllable source of biased quantum randomness.

Despite extensive study of these quantum systems, the influence of a very weak bias field was unexplored, remarks Charles Roques-Carmes, a researcher in the study. Our discovery of controllable quantum randomness not only allows us to revisit decades-old concepts in quantum optics but also opens up potential in probabilistic computing and ultra-precise field sensing.

The team has successfully exhibited the ability to manipulate the probabilities associated with the output states of an optical parametric oscillator, thereby creating the first-ever controllable photonic probabilistic bit (p-bit). Additionally, the system has shown sensitivity to the temporal oscillations of bias field pulses, even far below the single photon level.

Dr. Yannick Salamin, one of the lead authors of the work, operating the experimental system. Credit: Allyson Mac Basino

Yannick Salamin, another team member, remarks, Our photonic p-bit generation system currently allows for the production of 10,000 bits per second, each of which can follow an arbitrary binomial distribution. We expect that this technology will evolve in the next few years, leading to higher-rate photonic p-bits and a broader range of applications.

Professor Marin Soljai from MIT emphasizes the broader implications of the work: By making the vacuum fluctuations a controllable element, we are pushing the boundaries of whats possible in quantum-enhanced probabilistic computing. The prospect of simulating complex dynamics in areas such as combinatorial optimization and lattice quantum chromodynamics simulations is very exciting.

Reference: Biasing the quantum vacuum to control macroscopic probability distributions by Charles Roques-Carmes, Yannick Salamin, Jamison Sloan, Seou Choi, Gustavo Velez, Ethan Koskas, Nicholas Rivera, Steven E. Kooi, John D. Joannopoulos and Marin Soljai, 13 July 2023, Science.DOI: 10.1126/science.adh4920

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Harnessing the Void: MIT Controls Quantum Randomness For the ... - SciTechDaily

Toward a Complete Theory of Crystal Vibrations – Physics

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

September 11, 2023• Physics 16, 151

A new set of equations captures the dynamical interplay of electrons and vibrations in crystals and forms a basis for computational studies.

J. Berges/University of Bremen

Although a crystal is a highly ordered structure, it is never at rest: its atoms are constantly vibrating about their equilibrium positionseven down to zero temperature. Such vibrations are called phonons, and their interaction with the electrons that hold the crystal together is partly responsible for the crystals optical properties, its ability to conduct heat or electricity, and even its vanishing electrical resistance if it is superconducting. Predicting, or at least understanding, such properties requires an accurate description of the interplay of electrons and phonons. This task is formidable given that the electronic problem aloneassuming that the atomic nuclei stand stillis already challenging and lacks an exact solution. Now, based on a long series of earlier milestones, Gianluca Stefanucci of the Tor Vergata University of Rome and colleagues have made an important step toward a complete theory of electrons and phonons [1].

At a low level of theory, the electronphonon problem is easily formulated. First, one considers an arrangement of massive point charges representing electrons and atomic nuclei. Second, one lets these charges evolve under Coulombs law and the Schrdinger equation, possibly introducing some perturbation from time to time. The mathematical representation of the energy of such a system, consisting of kinetic and interaction terms, is the systems Hamiltonian. However, knowing the exact theory is not enough because the corresponding equations are only formally simple. In practice, they are far too complexnot least owing to the huge number of particles involvedso that approximations are needed. Hence, at a high level, a workable theory should provide the means to make reasonable approximations yielding equations that can be solved on todays computers.

One way to reduce the complexity of the problem is to step back from the picture of individual particles in favor of one of effective quasiparticles specific to the system at hand. An early example of a quasiparticle in the literature is the phonon: instead of focusing on the atomic nuclei that could, in principle, be located anywhere in space, one considers their collective vibration about their positions in a predefined crystal structure. Scientists have studied such elastic waves for almost a century [2], often resorting to two famous approximations: the Born-Oppenheimer approximation, which assumes that the electrons respond instantaneously to displacements of the nuclei; and the harmonic approximation, which posits that this response results in restoring forces proportional to the displacements.

Stefanucci and colleagues work builds on studies made in the middle of the last century that analyzed the interaction between quasiparticles by borrowing tools from quantum field theory. In 1961, Gordon Baym published a corresponding theory of electrons and phonons, in which the phonon field assigns a displacement to points in space and time [3]. One of the aforementioned tools is the technique of Feynman diagrams, which represent interaction processes graphically (Fig. 1) and can be translated into mathematical formulas through simple rules. By combining such diagrams into sets of equations that recursively depend on each other, one can account for all possible processes occurring in physical reality. In 1965, Lars Hedin presented examples of such equations, which completely describe systems of interacting electrons [4]. In a 2017 review, Feliciano Giustino merged these approaches and coined the term Hedin-Baym equations in the context of state-of-the-art materials simulationsanswering many, but not all, open questions [5].

Stefanucci and colleagues have addressed several of the remaining issues [1]. First, they imposed requirements on the electronphonon Hamiltonian, avoiding the mistake of trying to solve a problem not properly formulated in the first place. They emphasized that the equilibrium state around which the theory is built is not known in advance, making setting up and evaluating the Hamiltonian an iterative procedure. They also stressed that this Hamiltonian cannot generally be written in terms of physical phonons, contrary to what is often supposed. Second, the team generalized Giustinos work [5] to systems driven out of equilibrium at any temperaturea key advance because this scenario reflects experimental and technological conditions. Mathematically, this generalization allows time to take on complex values. Third, the researchers carefully derived the corresponding rules for Feynman diagrams and provided the first complete set of diagrammatic Hedin-Baym equations. Such equations form the basis of systematic approximations, in which certain diagrams are neglected, and provide a criterion [3] for the resulting dynamics to respect fundamental conservation laws. Whereas the effects of electrons on phonons and vice versa are well studied separately [5], here it is crucial that both occur simultaneously.

Nowadays, parameter-free simulations of electrons and phonons rely heavily on so-called density-functional perturbation theory [6], which is based on the Born-Oppenheimer and harmonic approximations. By contrast, diagrammatic techniques are oftenbut not always [7]used in combination with parameterized model Hamiltonians. Efforts to bring both approaches together have led to so-called downfolding methods, which already exist for the electronphonon problem [8]. The insights gained by Stefanucci and colleagues will certainly help to further bridge the different strategies. Moreover, the advancements beyond thermal equilibrium will be of utmost importance because such an extension is needed to explain the latest time-resolved spectroscopy experiments and to design better photovoltaics. Finally, given that the teams results apply to any fermionboson system, such as an interacting lightmatter system, many fields will benefit from this seminal work.

Jan Berges is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Bremen in Germany. He is working on electronphonon interactions at the interface of first principles and model calculations, with a focus on computational implementation. Since the beginning of his doctoral studies, which he completed in 2020, he has been interested in many-body instabilitiessuch as charge-density waves and superconductivityespecially in two-dimensional materials.

Researchers have demonstrated a way to sift a database of crystalline compounds for structures that can be separated into useful one-dimensional materials. Read More

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Toward a Complete Theory of Crystal Vibrations - Physics

A potential fifth fundamental force – The Chronicle – Duke Chronicle

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

For over 50 years, physicists have generally agreed that the interactions between elementary particles are governed by four fundamental forces: the strong force, weak force, electromagnetic force and gravity. The former three forces are related through the Standard Model of particle physics, while gravity derives its explanation from Einsteins general relativity.

However, similar to the fashion industry, sometimes models can give inaccurate conclusions of what our perceived reality should look like. And like any Victorias Secret catalog, we often dont get the full picture. Experimentalists have pointed out several phenomena that cannot be explained by our current understanding of physics, such as the nature of dark matter and dark energy, as well as the subatomic darties that may be going on inside black holes.

As a result, since as early as the 1980s, some scientists have postulated the existence of a fifth fundamental force to describe such anomalous behavior. This idea has been the subject of significant debate among the physics community ever since, with disparate studies proving and disproving the concept in an ever-perplexing will-they-wont-they battle featuring theory, experiment and a lot of lasers. Nevertheless, recent findings from Fermilab have shed light (or as they say in the particle physics community, shed photons) on the potential for a fifth force after all.

The evidence of a fifth force comes from the fact that the standard model can make precise predictions about particle behavior, and if we run an experiment such that the particles behave in a way that doesnt align with our predictions, there must be some unknown additional force at play. This notion underlies the workflow of the Muon g-2 experiment (pronounced gee minus two") a collaboration of nearly 200 scientists from 33 institutions, based at Fermilab in Batavia, Illinois. The experiment analyzes the behavior of muons, the heavier cousin of the electron by a factor of over 200. Muons are a temporary byproduct from collisions between positively-charged protons colliding with the nuclei of air molecules, part of the ever fluctuating quantum foam of appearing and disappearing particles in the boundless Diet Coke that is our universe.

Researchers at Fermilab shot a bunch of muons through a 50-foot diameter electromagnetic ring, where the muons sped around the ring about 1,000 times near the speed of light, like the coolest NASCAR race whose ionizing radiation would probably mutate your DNA into a sheep. The ring was filled with detectors that can make precise measurements of the muons behavior.

When elementary particles are exposed to a magnetic field, they act like mini-magnets themselves and exhibit an intrinsic property called spin, where they act as if they were a spinning object but arent actually spinning. The muon's internal magnet wants to rotate itself to align along the magnetic field axis like a compass aligning with the Earth's magnetic field. However, the muons spin prevents this from happening. Instead, the muon starts to act like a spinning top, where it spins around a wide axis, a type of rotation called precession which is notoriously one of the most difficult things to calculate in any mechanics course. Physicists can precisely measure this wobbling and eventually calculate the gyromagnetic ratio of a muon, denoted by g. All of this math theoretically predicts g for a muon to be around two, differing by a factor of 0.1, hence the name of the experiment.

But this is not what happened. Fermilab reported as of last month that they found the g for a muon to be about 0.002, five standard deviations smaller than expected. This means that theres only a 1-in-3.5 million chance of this being a statistical fluke! Such a discrepancy has provided staggering evidence that there might be some additional force at play. However, the researchers did note a high uncertainty in the theoretical calculation of g due to contributions from the four known fundamental forces at play in the experimental environment, slightly dampening the novelty of the result. Nevertheless, the staggering nature of these findings are enough to get theorists sharpening their pencils to figure out whats going on, and experimentalists to sharpenwhatever tool you need to build a particle detector.

When we say that something is defying the laws of physics, what were really saying is that something is defying our current understanding of how physics should work (or that we just know someone whos really good at calisthenics). Although particle physics seeks to describe the most fundamental aspects of the universe, the fundamentals of physics themselves are always subject to change in response to new information. This makes studying physics exciting and full of the feeling that youre always on some cutting edge, but also frustrating in that youre constantly bombarded with ideas that fundamentally conflict with one other, like with relativity and quantum mechanics. Relativity produces conclusions that are definite, whereas quantum mechanics produces conclusions that are probabilistic. Relativity sees time as malleable, whereas quantum mechanics sees time as fixed. Relativity is continuous or smooth, whereas quantum mechanics is discrete or chunky.

None of this is to say that either theory is wrong and that we need to Marie Kondo an entire discipline from a few discrepancies. If Ive learned anything from peanut butter, smooth and chunky ways of thinking are equally valid in their own contexts. What physicists are now hoping to do is to find the gaps in these models, and potentially find ways of better connecting the two schools of thought. As the Muon g-2 experiment continues to analyze data through 2025, we are in for a potential restandardization of the Standard Model itself and a mass reckoning for how well we know the things we are supposed to understand.

And although Im hesitant to jump to conclusions from preliminary data, if a fifth force is confirmed, I believe it deserves a cool name for future textbooks. Like pickles. Or Jeff.

Monika Narain is a Trinity junior. Her columntypicallyruns on alternating Thursdays.

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A potential fifth fundamental force - The Chronicle - Duke Chronicle

4 top physics schools that are shaping today’s most employable … – Study International News

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

Physics helps us understand how the world around us works. From solar eruptions overloading circuits on Earth to melting ice in Antarctica, the science that deals with the structure of matter and the interactions between the fundamental constituents of the observable universe is behind many great discoveries that define life as we know it today. These include computer chips, lasers, solar photovoltaic cells, and magnetic resonance imaging otherwise known as the foundation for all modern science and engineering.

Studying physics isnt just ideal for those seeking a career thats exciting and impactful, but also for those whod like to see just as much progress within themselves. Its a field thatll help you understand the universe, as much as yourself. Although youll be exploring advanced mathematics, youll find that being able to solve abstract equations will improve how you solve problems in the real world too. Other skills you stand to gain include the ability to think critically as well as creativity.

With a well-rounded suite of skills and knowledge, physics graduates are sought after and paid well all over the world. Their careers can involve exploring fundamental concepts in areas like space, particles, atoms, light, or materials. They can also dive into practical research, working on things like green energy, quantum info, medical tools, and more.

If youre keen on pursuing a career in this field, then you should consider these four top universities that offer world-class physics degrees:

Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealands first university. Ranked in top 200 in the QS World University Rankings and amongst the top 1% of universities internationally, the University of Otago boasts a maximum five-stars plus ranking from QS Stars. These stats are a reflection of the quality and excellence of a University of Otago education.

Nestled in a beautiful and unique campus town against the backdrop of giant vistas and huge skies is the University of Otagos Department of Physics. The #1 physics department in New Zealand and with the highest research ranking this is where students learn within state-of-the-art facilities and take on summer projects under the guidance of top international physicists. They are as passionate as they are experts in their respective areas, which span from quantum technology and space to climate and astrophysics. Under their guidance, students learn by doing and learn group work, gaining crucial problem-solving skills that have catapulted those before them to great careers in industry and in academia.

The department offers the only energy-focused undergraduate degree in Australasia and also the oldest programme of its type. For over 20 years, it has stood out for covering the science, technology and engineering behind energy efficiency and renewable energy. A unique mix of fundamental science, engineering, environmental impact and societal understanding prepares students to become future energy professionals armed with the tools to reduce carbon emissions. Graduates are in high demand by industry and government organization wanting to reduce emissions making it the top choice for any young person who wants to make a real impact on climate change.

The BSc in Physics is just as impactful. What sets it apart is how its supported by world-renowned cutting-edge research labs. As students hone their analytics thinking and problem-solving, they get to engage with teaching staff while gaining invaluable experimental and computational modelling skills. Graduates are sought after by advanced technology and data companies. Click here to learn more about the Department of Physics and here for a feel of the fantastic student experience in store.

University of Newcastle is ranked amongst the top eight in Australia for research well above world standard. Source: University of Newcastle/Facebook

Ranked #1 in Australia for educational experience, the College of Engineering, Science, and Environment at the University of Newcastle develops innovative, resourceful, and creative graduates who go on to become future leaders in the industry.

Nestled on Australias spectacular east coast and surrounded by some of the states most popular destinations, the university utilises the latest technology and innovation in teaching and learning to deliver a world-class student experience. For instance, it boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a world-class NIER building on the Callaghan campus, facilitating significant research breakthroughs through collaborative spaces.

Under the College of Engineering, Science and Environment, lies the School of Information and Physical Sciences a vibrant hub for research and teaching. Here, students gain modern, relevant, and comprehensive learning experience in dynamic labs, design studios and virtual learning areas that lead to exciting career opportunities, some of which are currently experiencing tremendous growth.

For example, students can enrol in the Bachelor of Science (Physics) programme, where they will study courses in classical and modern physics, including quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, optics, nuclear physics, atomic physics and special relativity. Experiments allow students to dive deeper into the relationships between these fundamental scientific components. Graduates of this programme can then embark on diverse career paths, such as nanotechnologist, astrophysicist, space scientist and defence scientist.

Texas A&M Universitys College of Arts and Sciences offers more than 130 programmes of study. Source: Texas A&M University/Facebook

As the states first public institution of higher learning, Texas A&M University is a research-intensive institution in the heart of the Houston-Dallas-Austin triangle. Over 70,000 students pursue an education here, and for good reasons: affordable tuition fees, excellent campus life, valuable education and some of the best faculties in the world. The best part? The university strives to continuously improve in all kinds of ways.

Step foot into its College of Arts and Sciences, and youll discover that the sentiment is especially true. It houses many departments, one of which is the Department of Physics & Astronomy. Here, students are nurtured to become problem solvers that are prepared for careers in industry, government, and healthcare as well as graduate studies, not only in physics and astronomy, but also many other science and engineering disciplines.

The department offers major and minor programmes related to physics and astronomy. This includes Astrophysics, Bachelor of Arts in Physics, Bachelor of Science in Physics and Physics Minor. Through classroom instruction, laboratories, and advising by world-class scientists, the department provides opportunities to its 200 undergraduate majors for education, research, science outreach, and community service.

We conduct research in astronomy and astrophysics, atomic and molecular physics, quantum optics, condensed matter physics, high energy physics, nuclear physics, and many other fields that are central to the mission of our department, says Grigory V. Rogachev, Professor and Head of Department. Our faculty includes two Nobel Prize winners, four members of the National Academy of Sciences, 10 Distinguished Professors, and one University Professor.

All 36 full-time faculty members in the department are physics professors, with their PhDs conferred by world-renowned universities. Source: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology/ Facebook

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is a dynamic university devoted to education and research. HKUST prides itself in its relentless pursuit of excellence, leading the advance of science, technology, business and humanities, and educating the new generation of front-runners for the world.

Zoom into the School of Science, and youll discover the Department of Physics, where students can pursue an undergraduate programme with a flexible curriculum based on their career goals. The rigorous academic training and research experience provide a strong foundation for those interested in further studies.

Here, students can join the BSc in Physics programme where they will learn about exciting topics ranging from quantum computing, superconductivity and nanotechnology to quarks and black holes. With the department boasting 36 full-time faculty members who are PhD holders, students greatly benefit from these experienced physics professors who use interactive teaching skills in both the classroom and laboratories. The result? Students are better prepared to embark on science-related careers, or for further studies in physics and related fields.

Student Lau Wing Sum (Class of 2020) who studied BSc in Physics at HKUST agrees. At HKUST, I met professors who are patient and passionate, as well as talented schoolmates who are enthusiastic about research. Their support has made my university life much more enjoyable, she says.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International

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4 top physics schools that are shaping today's most employable ... - Study International News

The worst prediction in all of science – Big Think

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

This article is the first in a series on the biggest problems in physics.

A successful scientific theory is one that makes precise and accurate predictions. Scientists are even happier when two distinct theories make predictions that agree with one another. Thus, physicists are a bit chagrined when they use their two best theories to predict the simplest possible quantity, and the result is that they disagree spectacularly enough that it is often called the worst prediction in the history of science.

Empty space is, well, empty. Containing nothing, it would seem that calculating the energy of empty space would be simple and the prediction would be zero. However, that expectation is not correct.

The two theories that, when combined, underlie all of modern physics are called the theory of general relativity and the standard model of particle physics. General relativity describes the behavior of the force of gravity and applies to large structures in the Universe. In contrast, the standard model of particle physics is used to explain all other forces and governs the quantum world of the very small.

Both theories can be applied to empty space. So, what happens when the two theories are used to calculate the energy density of a true vacuum?

Einsteins theory of general relativity discusses the shape and motion of space itself. We have known for a century that the Universe is expanding, and the theory that describes the evolution of the Universe is called the Big Bang. Basically, the theory says that the Universe was once smaller, and something caused the expansion to begin.

Given that gravity is an attractive force, this implies that after the expansion began, this expansion would slow down. Why? Because all the matter of the Universe attracted all of the other matter.

Thus, it was very surprising when, in 1998, researchers studying the evolution of the Universe found that not only was the Universe expanding, but that the expansion was speeding up. The only way this could happen is if space had a small and distinct energy associated with it. If the energy was of the right kind, it would result in a repulsive form of gravity. Researchers call this repulsive gravity dark energy, and they can calculate just how much dark energy is required to explain the observed evolution of the Universe. This energy is very small equivalent to about the energy of four hydrogen atoms per cubic meter of space.

So, does the standard model predict an energy of space and, if so, how?

The standard model says that all of space is filled with a variety of fields. When those fields vibrate in certain ways, the particles of the quantum world appear electrons, quarks, etc. However, even when the fields are quiescent nominally at rest there remains an ongoing residual hum, with tiny transient vibrations in the fields with an array of wavelengths. Because in the quantum world particles and waves are the same thing, this implies that empty space contains a chaotic mix of ephemeral particles that appear and disappear essentially instantly. This lowest energy state of the various fields is called the zero point, and the energy they contain is called the zero-point energy.

To calculate the zero-point energy of the quantum world, add up the effect of all the quantum waves. In principle, there is no minimum wavelength, so you add up shorter and shorter waves. Because short wavelength means high energy, this means adding higher and higher energies. Taken to the extreme, you could add up near-zero wavelengths with near-infinite energy but we know that the standard model eventually fails at very high energies, so you only add up energies to a certain maximum (and, hence, only to a certain minimum wavelength).

Just what exactly the maximum energy should be used in the calculations is a matter of theoretical dispute, but most scientists agree that the absolute highest possible energy for which the standard model applies is called the Planck energy. If you use that energy as the cutoff in your calculation, you calculate the zero-point energy to be very high. The energy density is equivalent to having the mass of a 100 quintillion times more than the entire visible Universe compacted down into a cubic meter.

Indeed, by this simple calculation, the energy density predicted by the standard model is about 10120 times that predicted by general relativity.That is a one followed by 120 zeros.This discrepancy certainly earns the title the worst prediction in all of science.

The factor 10120 is a worst-case scenario. Unproven theories have been proposed that improve the situation. For example, if a theory called supersymmetry turns out to be true, the disagreement is only a factor of 1060.

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When such a large disagreement occurs, something is very wrong with one or both theories. It remains possible that our current theoretical understanding is wrong, but general relativity describes the cosmos well and the standard model does a good job at the quantum level. Its only when the two are compared that a problem arises.

What are some of the proposed solutions? Well, there are many. For example, one explanation arises from the fact that the standard model assumes that there is no smallest unit of space. This means that the smallest volume you can imagine can be split into even smaller units in a never-ending series. But what if there is a smallest unit of space effectively an atom of space? If thats true, then this changes the calculations, and in such a scenario, the disagreement between cosmic and quantum energy can disappear.

Another idea is that we have been fooled by our senses. As we experience the world around us, we seem to move in three spatial dimensions. If there were additional dimensions of space, then this would radically change our theory of gravity, which would mean that the quantum calculations (which are currently performed in three-dimensional space) are wrong.

While the final answer is unknown, it seems more likely that the problem arises in our understanding of the world of the very small. After all, if the standard model prediction was correct, the Universe would have expanded so fast that stars, galaxies, and humans never would have existed.

But a mystery is a mystery. The simple fact is that researchers dont know why our theories of the cosmic and quantum worlds make such different predictions. Despite decades of effort, the answer has eluded some of the brightest minds of science. We will simply have to wait until that future day when someone solves this cosmic conundrum and enters the pantheon of physics legends.

The worst prediction in all of science - Big Think

Black holes may be lurking closer to Earth than previously thought – Euronews

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

The closest black hole to Earth was thought to be 1,560 light-years away - but a new study suggests there could be one around 150 light-years away.

Black holes are some of the most powerful and mysterious objects in the known universe - and there could be one much closer to Earth than previously thought.

A study has found possible evidence of a black hole in the closest open cluster of stars to Earth, called the Hyades cluster.

Data from the European Space Agencys (ESA) Gaia mission revealed the closest known - and second closest - black holes in 2022, Gaia BH1 and Gaia BH2, which are 1,560 light-years and 3,800 light-years from Earth respectively.

A new paper, however, published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, suggests there could be black holes much closer to home, at a distance of just 150 light-years.

Scientists at the University of Padua in Italy and the University of Barcelona in Spain used simulations to track the motion and evolution of all the stars in the Hyades open cluster, which are around 150 light-years away.

An open cluster is a collection of hundreds or thousands of stars loosely held together by their gravitational pull, sharing certain characteristics such as age or chemical makeup.

The results of the simulation were compared with the actual positions and velocities of the stars in the Hyades, which are now known precisely from observations made by ESAs Gaia satellite.

"Our simulations can only simultaneously match the mass and size of the Hyades if some black holes are present at the centre of the cluster today (or until recently)," said Stefano Torniamenti, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Padua and first author of the paper.

The current properties of the Hyades cluster were best reproduced when there were two or three black holes included in the simulations, although the researchers also said those that included black holes that had been "ejected" from the cluster still give a good match.

The results indicate there are still black holes in the cluster, or very nearby, which would make them by far the closest black hole candidates to our solar system.

"This observation helps us understand how the presence of black holes affects the evolution of star clusters and how star clusters in turn contribute to gravitational wave sources," said Mark Gieles, a member of the University of Barcelona Department of Quantum Physics.

"These results also give us insight into how these mysterious objects are distributed across the galaxy".

Most black holes are believed to form from the massive stars that have experienced a supernova explosion.

The mass from the star collapses in on itself, squeezing into a tighter and tighter area, until it becomes an object so dense that not even light can escape its gravitational pull.

As black holes cant be directly observed with current technology, their presence is usually inferred by studying their effect on other matter nearby. For example, if a black star tears a passing star apart, this process will create x-rays that are fired off into space that we can detect.

Research into black holes has stepped up a gear following the detection of gravitational waves in 2015, which were attributed to the collision of two black holes 1.3 billion light-years away.

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Black holes may be lurking closer to Earth than previously thought - Euronews

Unlocking quantum potential: Harnessing high-dimensional quantum states with QDs and OAM – Phys.org

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

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Quantum technology's future rests on the exploitation of fascinating quantum mechanics conceptssuch as high-dimensional quantum states. Think of these states as basic ingredients of quantum information science and quantum tech. To manipulate these states, scientists have turned to light, specifically a property called orbital angular momentum (OAM), which deals with how light twists and turns in space. Here's a catch: making super bright single photons with OAM in a deterministic fashion has been a tough nut to crack.

Now, enter quantum dots (QDs), tiny particles with big potential. A team of researchers from Sapienza University of Rome, Paris-Saclay University, and University of Naples Federico II combined the features of OAM with those of QDs to create a bridge between two cutting-edge technologies.

Their results are published in Advanced Photonics.

So, where is the innovation? This bridge they've built can be flexibly used for two goals. First, it can make pure single photons that are entangled within the OAM-polarization space, and the researchers can count them directly. Second, this bridge can also make pairs of photons that are strongly correlated in the quantum world. They're entangled, so that each single photon state cannot be described independently of the other, even when they're far apart. This is a big deal for quantum communication and encryption.

This new platform has the potential to create hybrid entanglement states both within and between particles, all belonging to high-dimensional Hilbert spaces. On one hand, the team has achieved the generation of pure single photons, whose quantum states exhibit nonseparability within the hybrid OAM-polarization domain.

By exploiting an almost deterministic quantum source in combination with a q-platea device capable of adjusting the OAM value based on single photon polarizationthe researchers can directly validate these states through single-photon counts, thereby avoiding the need for a heralding process and enhancing the rate of generation.

On the other hand, the team also employs the concept of indistinguishability within single photons as a resource to generate pairs of single photons that possess entanglement within the hybrid OAM-polarization space.

According to Professor Fabio Sciarrino, head of Quantum Information Lab in the Department of Physics of Sapienza University of Rome, "The proposed flexible scheme represents a step forward in high-dimensional multiphoton experiments, and it could provide an import platform for both fundamental investigations and quantum photonic applications."

In simple terms, this research is a leap in our quest for better quantum technologies. It's like connecting two major cities. This connection opens exciting possibilities for quantum computing, communication, and much more. So, keep an eye on thisit's not just science; it's the future.

More information: Alessia Suprano et al, Orbital angular momentum based intra- and interparticle entangled states generated via a quantum dot source, Advanced Photonics (2023). DOI: 10.1117/1.AP.5.4.046008

Journal information: Advanced Photonics

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Unlocking quantum potential: Harnessing high-dimensional quantum states with QDs and OAM - Phys.org

Internet Security Market Size, Share, Growth, Analysis, Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031 – Benzinga

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

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The latest report published by Report Ocean, titled "Internet Security Market": Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity, and Forecast 2023 to 2031," offers a comprehensive assessment of the industry, including valuable insights into market trends. The report encompasses competitor and regional analysis, as well as the latest developments in the market. It serves as an excellent resource for investors, researchers, consultants, marketing strategists, and anyone planning to enter the market in any capacity.

Internet threats have evolved as a global problem and have spread across various geographies. The main objective of Internet security solutions is to protect the systems and networks against cyber-attacks. Increasing number of advanced network threats, such as virus, spam, malware, and others, have led the Internet security solution providers to develop advanced products. Increasing usage of Internet across every sector has increased the vulnerability of virus attacks, spams and others, which could severely impact system functionality and business operations. Several sectors, such as finance, infrastructure, transportation, telecommunication, and defense and research institutes, have become the prime targets of the cyber-attacks.

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"Russia-Ukraine Impactin 2022: The market faced adverse consequences as a result of economic sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation by the United States and its allied nations.

The Russia-Ukraine War, initiated onFebruary 24,marked a pivotal moment in contemporary history, triggering a cascade of consequential policy decisions and seismic shifts within global markets. Notably, sinceFebruary 25,the Russian equity market has remained shuttered, while the Russian currency has seen a continuous decline, plunging to historic lows. Concurrently, the price of oil surged beyond the $130 per barrel (bbl) mark, a threshold not witnessed since 2008, while gas prices also skyrocketed to unprecedented levels. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia is poised to cast a long shadow over global economic progress, inevitably fueling inflationary pressures.

The economic sanctions levied on the Russian Federation by the US and its partners are foreseen to exert a significant influence on the industry's growth. Furthermore, the global business landscape experienced disruptions in import and export activities due to the conflict. The dominance of Russia and Roscommon, a semi-private space agency, within the commercial space sector had detrimental effects on alternative launch service providers in regions such asIndia, Japan, Europe, and the United States.These factors collectively had an adverse impact on the market during the period of conflict."

International Business Machine (IBM) CorporationHewlett Packard (HP) CompanyMicrosoft CorporationCISCO Systems, Inc.Google IncorporationIntel Corporation (McAfee, Inc.)Symantec CorporationTrend MicroKaspersky LabDell (SonicWall, Inc.)

Internet security solutions protect computing systems to ensure flawless execution of operations and prevent damage and loss that might arise from any kind of cyber-attack. This report presents a detailed view on the world Internet security market. The market growth is driven by several factors, such as cloud-based business operations, increase in the number of online financial transactions, and growing use of Internet due to wireless availability and enhanced connectivity.

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The presence of pirated software and lack of awareness about utilizing Internet security features among the consumers, act as the key restraining factors. However, the market is expected to witness constant growth with increasing number of Internet applications, such as e-commerce and e-governance and growing awareness and for efficient security solutions. Additionally, increasing adoption of managed security solutions offered by various companies would foster the growth of Internet security market. The major companies operating in this market include IBM, Intel, Symantec, and HP among others. These top players have primarily adopted product launch, product enhancement, and acquisition strategies in order to enhance their market share in world Internet security market.

The world Internet security market is segmented into product & services, technology, application, and geography. Based upon product & services, the market is further segmented into hardware, software, and services. The application segment highlights the importance and usage of Internet security solutions in BFSI, retail, telecom & IT, manufacturing, and education, among others. Furthermore, Internet security market is segmented on the basis of technology, which includes authentication, access control, content filtering, and cryptography. In addition, the report segments the world Internet security market based on different regions, which include North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and LAMEA.

KEY BENEFITS

The report provides an overview of the international markets, with special reference to market trends, market structure, driving factors, scope, opportunities and the challenges in the Internet security marketPorters Five Forces model is used to analyze the potency of buyers and suppliers and the competitive structure of the marketThe segmental study of the global market provides a comprehensive overview of various security technologies along with their applications across different geographiesThe report identifies major drivers, opportunities, and restraints, which boost the market and provides an impact analysis for the forecast periodValue chain analysis provides a systematic study of the key intermediaries involved, which could assist the stakeholders in formulating appropriate strategies

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Market by Product & Service

HardwareSoftwareServices

Market by Technology

Authentication technologyAccess control technologyContent filteringCryptography

Market by Application

BFSIRetailTelecom & ITGovernmentManufacturingEducationAerospace, defense, & intelligenceOthers

Market by Geography

North AmericaEuropeAsia-PacificLAMEA (Latin America, Middle East and Africa)

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? To provide with an exhaustive analysis on the global market by region, by treatment type, by end user, by therapy, by market players? To cater comprehensive information on factors impacting market growth (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and industry-specific restraints)? To evaluate and forecast micro-markets and the overall market? To predict the market size, in key regions (along with countries)--North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and rest of the world? To record evaluate and competitive landscape mapping- product launches, technological advancements, mergers and expansions? Profiling of companies to evaluate their market shares, strategies, financials and core competencies

What Does the Market Research Report Cover for the Period 2020-2023 and Project for 2023-2031?

Answer: This comprehensive market research report delves into the market, offering an in-depth analysis of its historical performance from 2020 to 2023 It provides valuable insights into past trends, growth drivers, and challenges. Furthermore, it presents a detailed forecast for the market's prospects from 2023 to 2031, shedding light on potential developments and opportunities.

How Is the Market Segmented by Types and Applications?

Answer: Within this report, the market is meticulously categorized based on various types and applications, providing readers with a clear understanding of the distinct subsectors within the market. These segments encompass Cementitious Latex-Based Agents, Epoxy-Based Agents, and Applications spanning Building and Construction, Road and Infrastructure, Utility Industries, and more.

Which Geographic Regions Are Explored in the Report?

Answer: The report conducts a thorough geographical analysis, offering insights into market trends and performance across diverse regions. It encompasses critical global regions, enabling readers to assess regional dynamics within the market and pinpoint potential growth opportunities in specific areas.

What Key Historical Data Points Are Covered from 2020 to 2023?

Answer: In the report, historical data pertinent to the 2020-2023 period is presented, encompassing vital information such as market size, growth rates, market share, and influential factors that shaped the market's evolution during this timeframe. Additionally, it highlights significant events, trends, and challenges that played a role in shaping the market landscape.

What Methodologies Were Employed for Forecasting Market Trends from 2023 to 2031?

Answer: The market forecast spanning from 2023 to 2031 is built upon a fusion of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. These approaches encompass an analysis of historical data, an assessment of market dynamics, expert opinions, and statistical modeling. This combination ensures a robust and reliable outlook for the market's future performance.

How Can Stakeholders and Decision-Makers Benefit from this Market Research Report?

Answer:This report serves as an invaluable resource for stakeholders and decision-makers operating in the market. It furnishes a comprehensive grasp of market trends, the competitive landscape, and growth prospects. Armed with this knowledge, stakeholders can make informed decisions, craft effective strategies, and maintain a competitive edge within the market.

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Internet Security Market Size, Share, Growth, Analysis, Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031 - Benzinga

Iowa Air National Guardsman Sentenced to Federal Prison for … – Department of Justice

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

A Guardsman for the Iowa Air Guards 185th Refueling Wing who possessed over 1,400 images of child sexual abuse material was sentenced today, September 11, 2023, to three years in federal prison.

Kevin Swanson, age 35, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after he plead guilty in federal court on May 4, 2023, to Possession of Child Pornography.

Evidence at todays hearing established that between August 2020, and August 2021, he used an Internet-based, peer-to-peer (P2P) network to knowingly share and receive visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including depictions involving prepubescent minors who had not reached the age of 12.

Swanson was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Swanson was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment and a total of $10,000 in fines. Swanson must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term and register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.

Swanson is being held in the United States Marshals custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab resources.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit and investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Sioux City Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

The case file number is 22-4080.

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Iowa Air National Guardsman Sentenced to Federal Prison for ... - Department of Justice

It’s the end of the line for outdated internet encryption protocols – SiliconANGLE News

September 13, 2023 | Author: admin

An aging core internet protocol is finally getting the ax by Microsoft Corp.

But it wasnt just last months announcement that the software vendor was ending support for versions 1.0 and 1.1 of Transport Layer Security, or TLS, but that it was actually dropping the support from the impending release of the latest beta version of Windows 11.

TLS is one of those protocols that have far-reaching influence. It provides the security for encrypting web pages designated with the s in HTTPS URLs for example. It also provides for encrypted connections used today in communications tools such as virtual private networks and secure command consoles called Secure Sockets Layer shells that operate numerous servers.

These protocol updates take time to develop, because they rely on a consensus approach with one of the internets international standards bodies. The latest version of TLS is 1.3, which was adopted in the summer of 2018, replacing version 1.2 which came out in 2008 and 1.0 which was released in 1999.

In the case of TLS 1.3, the process took five years from concept to implementation. Now most web traffic happens over HTTPS connections and we dont give this much thought. The new version speeded up network conversations by reducing overall latency version 1.2 required two round trips, while 1.3 needs only at most a single round trip and made the handshakes between two computers a lot more secure, as illustrated in the accompanying diagram.

But just reducing latency wasnt enough, and the older TLS version were vulnerable to attacks that were well-known and often used as initial exploits to penetrate networks, notoriously including 2014s Heartbleed attacks for example.

Cloudflare summarized five of these vulnerabilities in their blog post several years ago, basically identifying the progress in improving encryption keys. The latest TLS 1.3 version make it impossible for someone to enable the vulnerable aspects of TLS 1.2, as they wrote in their blog, and this is why version 1.3 removed many legacy features.

The U.S. National Security Agency warned about these vulnerabilities back in 2021 and recommended that organizations block all use of TLS 1.0 and 1.1. Most of the major web browser vendors have dropped their support for these versions for several years. Microsoft said in its announcement that we have been tracking TLS protocol usage for several years and believe TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 usage data are low enough to act.

Nevertheless, there are still some places they are being used. The NSA warned, Using obsolete encryption provides a false sense of security because it may look like sensitive data is protected, even though it really is not. That is excellent advice.

Microsoft said it will disable support of TLS 1.0 and 1.1 by default in the new Insider preview build of Windows 11 thats expected any day now and then in subsequent versions. But this doesnt mean Windows cant work with these aging protocols: Information technology administrators can turn this on with edits to the Windows Registry. That is somewhat time-consuming and painful, to be sure, and easily prone to mistakes.

Microsoft acknowledged the older protocol versions might still be used by a variety of applications, such as in ancient versions of its SQL Server and pre-2018 Intuit Turbo Tax versions. They assembled a series of suggestions to customers who may have problems with removing other dependencies in this document posted with revisions last month, and summarized the support of the various versions across its older Windows operating systems in the accompanying table.

There have been numerous tools to help IT managers find and fix outdated TLS implementations. And even though Microsoft is still supporting TLS 1.2, it is probably a good idea to update these deployments to version 1.3, because eventually Windows will move on to that protocol too.

The NSA has a collection of mitigation tools and best practice suggestions including Snort signatures to locate old TLS versions, templates for web server configurations and various network scanners. These are open source and free. One of those tools is from Qualys SSL Labs that can test both browsers and server implementations of TLS.

TLS isnt the only upgrade target for Microsofts cleanup campaign as of late. Last week, itannounced the end of supportfor legacy third-party printer device drivers, a decision that will take several years to trickle down through the various Windows products. These drivers were another source of potential vulnerabilities, as this post from Sentinel Labs wrote about in 2021.

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