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Golden Ratio Discovered In a Quantum World

FiReaNGeL writes "Scientists have for the first time observed a nanoscale symmetry hidden in solid state matter. 'In order to study these nanoscale quantum effects, the researchers have focused on the magnetic material cobalt niobate. It consists of linked magnetic atoms, which form chains just like a very thin bar magnet, but only one atom wide.' By artificially introducing more quantum uncertainty, the researchers observed that the chain acts like a nanoscale guitar string. The first two notes show a perfect relationship with each other. Their frequencies (pitch) are in the ratio of 1.618, which is the golden ratio famous from art and architecture. The observed resonant states in cobalt niobate are a dramatic laboratory illustration of the way in which mathematical theories developed for particle physics may find application in nanoscale science and ultimately in future technology."

5 of 191 comments (clear)

  1. Oblig. Square One TV's MATHNET reference... by LostCluster · · Score: 5, Funny

    1, 1, 2, 3, 5, Eureka!

  2. Summary wrong by LostCluster · · Score: 5, Funny

    Since we know Google is never wrong, the Golden Ratio is exactly 1.61803399, not 1.618 as stated in the summary.

    1. Re:Summary wrong by LostCluster · · Score: 4, Funny

      I knew that. But that fact interfered with the joke.

    2. Re:Summary wrong by X-Power · · Score: 4, Funny

      One could say the joke became irrational.

    3. Re:Summary wrong by LostCluster · · Score: 4, Funny

      Wow... the mods really hate this thread. I say they may be the irrational ones.