Category Physics

A Yale-led group of researchers has derived a formula for understanding where quantum objects land when they are transmitted. Credit: Illustration by Michael S. Helfenbein/Yale University

If objects in motion are like rainwater flowing through a gutter and landing in a puddle, then quantum objects in motion are like rainwater that might end up in a bunch of puddles, all at once. Figuring out where quantum objects actually go has frustrated scientists for years. Now a Yale-led group of researchers has derived a formula for understanding where quantum objects land when they are transmitted.This offers insight for controlling open quantum systems in a variety of situations.

“The formula we derive turns out to be very useful in operating a quantum computer,” said Victor Albert...

Ohio State University researchers have developed a technique to create light emitting diodes on metal foil. Image by Brelon J. May, courtesy of The Ohio State University.

Material created with high heat yields record power output density. With energy conservation expected to play a growing role in managing global demand, materials and methods that make better use of existing sources of energy have become increasingly important. Researchers reported this week they have demonstrated a step forward in converting waste heat – from industrial smokestacks, power generating plants or even automobile tailpipes – into electricity.

The work, using a thermoelectric compound composed of niobium, titanium, iron and antimony, succeeded in raising the material’s power output density dramatically by using...

SEM images of the material hot-pressed at a) 1123 K, b)1173 K, c) 1273 K, and d)1373 K. Credit: University of Houston

Material created with high heat yields record power output density. With energy conservation expected to play a growing role in managing global demand, materials and methods that make better use of existing sources of energy have become increasingly important. Researchers reported this week they have demonstrated a step forward in converting waste heat – from industrial smokestacks, power generating plants or even automobile tailpipes – into electricity.

The work, using a thermoelectric compound composed of niobium, titanium, iron and antimony, succeeded in raising the material’s power output density dramatically by using a very hot pressing temperature – up to 1373 Kelvin ...

Scientists have developed a solar smart window that could power itself and other devices. Credit: American Chemical Society

Regular Smart windows get darker to filter out the sun’s rays on bright days, and turn clear on cloudy days to let more light in. This feature can help control indoor temperatures and offers some privacy without resorting to blinds. Now scientists report a new development in this growing niche: solar smart windows that can turn opaque on demand and even power other devices. The study appears in ACS Photonics.

Most existing solar-powered smart windows are designed to respond automatically to changing conditions, such as light or heat. But this means that on cool or cloudy days, consumers can’t flip a switch and tint the windows for privacy...