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45-Year Physics Mystery Shows a Path To Quantum Transistors

Posted by Soulskill on from the hiding-under-heisenberg dept.

New submitter cyberspittle sends this research report from the University of Michigan: An odd, iridescent material that's puzzled physicists for decades turns out to be an exotic state of matter that could open a new path to quantum computers and other next-generation electronics. ... The researchers provide the first direct evidence that samarium hexaboride, abbreviated SmB6, is a topological insulator (abstract). Topological insulators are, to physicists, an exciting class of solids that conduct electricity like a metal across their surface, but block the flow of current like rubber through their interior. They behave in this two-faced way despite that their chemical composition is the same throughout. ... This deeper understanding of samarium hexaboride raises the possibility that engineers might one day route the flow of electric current in quantum computers like they do on silicon in conventional electronics.

4 of 56 comments (clear)

  1. Fluff piece by msobkow · · Score: 4, Informative

    The summary and the article itself are so fluffy and short that they don't give any useful information about how this material relates to quantum computing, nor why it's properties are significant. There is mention of a class of electrons involved, but not how nor why this particular type of electron is relevant to quantum computing.

    It sounds interesting and all, but it would have been nice to have enough information to give one something to think about instead of just having to assume that the high faluting professors know their shit and must be right. :P

    --
    I do not fail; I succeed at finding out what does not work.
    1. Re:Fluff piece by teridon · · Score: 3, Informative

      There's a bit more information about why "Dirac electrons" (electrons behaving relativistically instead of classically) are important for quantum computing here:

      http://www.michigandaily.com/n...

      --
      I hold it, that a little rebellion, now and then, is a good thing. -- Thomas Jefferson
  2. Re:Insulator, Isolator by hawkinspeter · · Score: 4, Informative

    I think you're confused about isolator/insulator. Wires are commonly wrapped in insulation (e.g. rubber) to prevent them conducting. You can also put insulation into your walls to reduce heat loss.

    An isolator is typically a mechanical switch that would completely disconnect an electrical circuit.

    --
    You're a temporary arrangement of matter sliding towards oblivion in a cold, uncaring universe
  3. Not the first time Dirac electrons have been seen by cruff · · Score: 3, Informative

    Interestingly this article, also from U Mich, talks about observing Dirac electrons: http://www.ns.umich.edu/new/re...