Researchers at CNR Nanotec in Italy have made a groundbreaking discovery, creating the first supersolid using light for the first time. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough in quantum physics and opens new avenues for studying exotic phases of matter.
A supersolid is a state that combines the properties of both solids and superfluids. In traditional supersolids, observed only in ultracold atomic gases, this phenomenon was thought to be impossible due to extreme cooling requirements and precise atomic interactions.
However, by employing photons, researchers were able to replicate this paradoxical state without needing such extreme conditions. The team’s experiment involved creating a semiconductor platform with tiny ridges guiding the movement of light particles. When photons entered the system, they formed a condensate at the lowest energy state, exhibiting both solid-like order and frictionless flow.
This discovery has profound implications for fundamental physics and applied technology. It provides a new way to explore exotic states, potentially simplifying the study of supersolids without requiring ultracold atomic setups. The potential applications range from quantum computing and optical communication to advanced material design.
The achievement marks a significant step forward in understanding how supersolidity can emerge in systems beyond traditional atomic gases. As researchers continue to refine their methods, they may uncover new quantum phases of matter, leading to deeper insights into the fundamental nature of the universe.
Source: https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/for-the-first-time-ever-scientists-convert-light-into-a-supersolid