#South Korea #Seoul #Quantum Metric #Yonsei University #Black Phosphorus

Yonsei University Makes Quantum Leap in Physics

In a major advancement in the field of physics, researchers at Yonsei University have successfully measured the quantum metric tensor in real materials, specifically black phosphorus. This groundbreaking study breaks new ground in understanding the quantum distance, a measure of similarity between two quantum states.

Understanding Quantum Distance

Quantum distance is not just a theoretical concept; it serves as a crucial metric for quantifying how similar or different two quantum states are to each other. A distance of one signifies identical states, while zero indicates complete oppositeness. Although the idea has been around for some time, its importance has only recently gained traction in modern physics.

The Research Team and Methodology

This pioneering work was carried out by an international collaborative team, headed by Keun Su Kim, the Underwood Distinguished Professor of Physics at Yonsei University. Alongside Professor Kim, the experimental group included talented researchers Yoonah Chung and Soobin Park. They worked closely with a theoretical group from Seoul National University, led by Professor Bohm-Jung Yang.

The researchers chose black phosphorus due to its elementary layered crystal structure, making it an ideal candidate for the study. Using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), coupled with synchrotron radiation from the Advanced Light Source located in the USA, the team was able to measure the quantum distances of electrons within this material. This technique allowed them to explore the pseudospin texture in the valence band, a key factor in accurately determining the quantum metric tensor.

Implications and Future of Quantum Science

Professor Kim highlighted the study's significance, stating that measuring quantum distance is not merely an academic exercise. This research opens pathways for understanding various anomalous quantum phenomena in solids, including those observed in superconductors. Such insights will be invaluable for advancing quantum science and technology, especially in the realm of quantum computation where precision is key to developing fault-tolerant systems.

A Step Forward in Semiconductor Technology

The implications of this research extend into practical applications as well. By gaining a better understanding of quantum distances, researchers can enhance semiconductor technologies, develop higher transition-temperature superconductors, and design quantum computers that vastly outperform their classical counterparts. The work provides insights that could lead to innovations across a wide array of crystalline systems.

As the world increasingly moves towards a quantum technology-led future, understanding the quantum metric tensor paves the way for not only advancements in physics but also the broader technology landscape. This research signifies a vital leap forward, positioning Yonsei University at the forefront of quantum physics exploration and application.

Reference

The original paper titled "Direct measurement of the quantum metric tensor in solids" was published in Science on June 5, 2025. Its DOI is 10.1126/science.ado6049.

Discover more about the advancement in quantum metrics from Yonsei University, a leading institution in scientific research and inquiry.