Scientists prove 'quantum theory' that could lead to ultrafast magnetic computing

By Peter Ray Allison published 8 hours ago

Superfast magnetic memory devices are possible after scientists engineer way to use lasers to magnetize non-magnetic materials.



A futuristic image of a computer chip
By inducing a "switchable" magnetic field, scientists have induced a quantum property that could pave the way for faster computing. (Image credit: Yuichiro Chino via Getty Images)

For the first time, scientists have magnetized a non-magnetic material at room temperature, inducing a quantum property that they say could pave the way for ultra-fast computing.

The "switchable" magnetic field could one day be used to store and transmit information. This was something previously only possible at ultracold temperatures.

The results pave the way for "ultra-fast magnetic switches that can be used for faster information transfer and considerably better data storage, and for computers that are significantly faster and more energy-efficient,” study lead author, Alexander Balatsky, professor of physics at the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics (NORDITA), said in a statement.

Scientists have long wanted to harness the weird laws of quantum mechanics to improve computing systems, for example in quantum computing. But quantum states are delicate, and can easily fall apart, or "decohere," thanks to noise such as thermal vibration, or the random jiggling of atoms.

More:
https://www.livescience.com/technology/computing/scientists-prove-quantum-theory-that-could-lead-to-ultrafast-magnetic-computing