Probing quantum mechanics with nanoparticle matter-wave interferometry.

ABSTRACT: The quantum superposition principle is a fundamental concept of physics¹ and the basis of numerous quantum technologies^2,3. Yet, it is still often regarded counterintuitive because we do not observe its key features on the macroscopic scales of our daily lives. It is, therefore, interesting to ask how quantum properties persist or change as we increase the size and complexity of objects⁴. A model test for this question can be realized by matter-wave interferometry, in which the motion of individual massive particles becomes delocalized and needs to be described by a wave function that spans regions far larger than the particle itself⁵. Over the years, this has been explored with a series of objects of increasing mass and complexity^6-9

SUBMITTER: Pedalino S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12823444 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature