What is quantum?
Quantum information science, engineering and technology combine an understanding of the unusual ways the universe works at the molecular, atomic and subatomic scales with new ideas for applying that understanding to new technologies.
Researchers are exploring the nature of quantum phenomena, like entanglement, superposition and quantization, and applying that understanding to develop powerful computers, secure communications, better sensors and other technologies.
How does quantum work?
Quantum entanglement — what Albert Einstein called "spooky action at a distance" — links particles together so that measuring something about one instantly reveals information about the other, no matter the distance between them.
While entanglement defies everyday experience, it's very useful. For example, entanglement allows quantum computers to manipulate many qubits (the quantum equivalent of computer bits) in a single operation, drastically reducing computational time.
In the quantum world, particles can exist in a superposition of states, meaning they can be in multiple states at once — until they're measured.
Qubits (the quantum equivalent of computer bits) can use superposition to represent both 0 and 1 at the same time. Superposition gives quantum computers the potential for exponentially greater computational power than regular "classical" computers.
In the quantum world, some properties, like the energy levels of electrons in an atom, come in fixed steps called "quanta." Like rungs on a ladder, an electron can only be on one step or another, but never in between.
Quantized particles can be used by quantum computers, networks and other technologies to precisely transfer and store information, like 0s and 1s.
Brought to you by NSF
Since the 1950s, NSF's sustained support for basic research laid the foundation for today's quantum technologies.
Quantum sensing
NSF funding is fueling research and development of new sensor technologies that can use quantum phenomena, like superposition and entanglement, to precisely measure the previously unmeasurable.
One day, quantum sensors could allow doctors to pinpoint infections by measuring magnetic fields inside individual cells, or geologists to find subterranean mineral deposits without lifting a shovel by measuring minute, localized changes in the passage of time.
Quantum computing
Unlike today's computers, which use bits to process information as either a 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously — enabling the potential for exponentially greater computational power.
NSF is investing in the research and development of multiple methods that could one day lead to quantum computers that can solve complex problems far beyond the capabilities of today's most powerful supercomputers — like creating new superconducting materials or identifying new medicines.
Quantum communication
NSF is funding multiple research teams exploring the use of entanglement, superposition and other quantum phenomena to create networks that can transmit information in new ways that are faster, more reliable and more secure.
These networks could help secure information from eavesdroppers and connect quantum processors and sensors to each other for scalable high-performance systems.
Quantum materials
Some materials have unusual properties, like the ability to conduct electricity on the surface while strongly resisting the flow of electricity on the inside. Such properties are the result of quantum phenomena.
NSF has funded much of the research behind quantum materials and continues to support new ideas for how they can be understood and potentially used for computing, sensing, communication and other applications.
NSF-powered "first-generation" quantum technologies
Did you know that a lot of technologies in your daily life depend on quantum effects to work?
Many of these "first-generation" quantum technologies came into being thanks to decades of NSF-funded research in physics, chemistry, computer science, engineering and materials science.
MRI
One of the most widely used medical imaging technologies is rooted in decades of NSF-powered research.
Semiconductors
NSF–funded research has catalyzed breakthroughs in semiconductors, the chips that enable virtually all modern technology.
Quantum dots
Decades of NSF-supported research led to the development of quantum dots, nanocrystals that are essential components of next-generation displays, solar cells, high-resolution medical imaging and many more technologies.
Lasers
Sustained investments by NSF in foundational research and infrastructure have unleashed incredibly precise lasers, which have powered and pulsed their way into nearly every aspect of modern life, from LASIK to the most powerful laser in the U.S.
LEDs
NSF-funded research expanded the capabilities and energy efficiency of light-emitting diode (LED) lighting, found in everyday electronics from smartphones and computers to streetlamps and the light inside your fridge.