Archive

Illustration of tree roots and mushrooms

01/26/22

What is a quantum network?

As we step into the quantum age, here are four things to know about quantum networks.

01/25/22

The quantum squeeze

A technique from the newest generation of quantum sensors is helping scientists to use the limitations of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle to their advantage.

01/20/22

Going beyond the exascale

Quantum computers could enable physicists to tackle questions even the most powerful computers cannot handle.

01/19/22

More than one way to make a qubit

Scientists are exploring a variety of ways to make quantum bits. We may not need to settle on a single one.

01/18/22

What is quantum information?

Quantum information breaks the rules of classical information in a way that could allow us to answer questions that a classical computer cannot.

Illustration of contrasting garden styles

01/13/22

From bits to qubits

Quantum computers go beyond the binary.

Illustration of the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly

01/12/22

The second quantum revolution

Inventions like the transistor and laser changed the world. What changes will the second quantum revolution bring?

01/11/22

Playing by the quantum rules

Uncertainty, entanglement, spooky action: On the quantum scale, the universe doesn’t work the way you might expect.

01/11/22

Looking at a new quantum revolution

This month, Symmetry presents a series of articles on the past, present and future of quantum research—and its many connections to particle physics, astrophysics and computing.

Illustration of similar dark matter particles interacting

01/04/22

Theorists imagine a different kind of dark matter

Physicists are revisiting what they previously assumed about how dark matter interacts with itself.

Illustration demonstrating identical swimmers with different masses

12/07/21

Are leptons all alike?

Building experimental evidence suggests that the electron, muon and tau may feel different forces.

11/30/21

Physics books of 2021

Explore 10 new works related to particle physics and astrophysics, plus a bonus book on math.

Illustration: mentee wondering about a map, mentors offering pieces of maps

11/23/21

How to be a better mentor (and mentee)

Building a fulfilling mentor-mentee relationship requires agency and investment from both parties.

11/16/21

Catherine Heymans shines as Astronomer Royal for Scotland

Heymans, the first woman to be appointed to the role, hopes to give kids and others the chance to appreciate the stars.

11/09/21

The problem-solver: Cosmic inflation

Just over 40 years ago, a new theory about the early universe provided a way to tackle multiple cosmological conundrums at once.

Conceptual illustration of birds and fish

11/02/21

From physics to fisheries

Students in the Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program hope to use skills they developed at Fermilab to benefit Indigenous communities.