In a significant advancement in quantum physics, researchers have developed a novel thermometer that measures the “quantumness” of various systems. This innovative device allows scientists to explore the complex interactions between heat and quantum states.
The second law of thermodynamics, which states that heat naturally flows from hotter objects to cooler ones, may seem straightforward. However, Brazilian physicist Alexssandre de Oliveira Jr., during a conversation in a café in Copenhagen, highlighted the nuances that are often overlooked.
To illustrate his point, de Oliveira presented a hot cup of coffee next to a cold jug of milk. He emphasized that when they come into contact, the heat transfers from the coffee to the milk, a process that aligns with the second law. Yet, this example also serves as a gateway to deeper discussions about quantum mechanics and the behavior of particles at extremely low temperatures.
The thermometer developed by de Oliveira and his team not only tracks temperature but also provides insights into the quantum states of the materials being measured. This capability could have far-reaching implications for research in quantum physics, potentially enhancing our understanding of thermal properties in quantum systems.
The findings and details of this groundbreaking research were first reported in Quanta Magazine, emphasizing the importance of combining classical thermodynamic principles with modern quantum mechanics.
