Quantum physics is already important in a number of areas in macroscopic systems. For example, the quantum mechanical collective behaviour of electrons gives rise to exotic macroscopic behaviour, such as superconductivity (electrical conduction without resistance). An increasing number of interesting questions about quantum effects in macroscopic systems are also emerging in relation to magnetism. The theoretical understanding of these collective quantum effects is being challenged by a series of unexpected discoveries, including the possibility of high-temperature superconductivity in certain model systems. Can we develop materials that realise these model systems? Superconductivity at room temperature would make it possible to transport electricity without losses, with a major impact on global energy supply.
Connecting character
Controlling and even steering quantum behaviour represents a major scientific and technological challenge. Achieving this will require further developments of, for instance, new materials, switching structures and informatics. There are also connections here to nanotechnology, optics, microscopic techniques and plasmonics. The Dutch physics community is excellently positioned to play a leading role in this pioneering development in fundamental physics. Not only is the phenomenon of superconductivity a Dutch invention, the entire field of so-called quantum matter, as these new forms of materials are called, plays a central role in national research programming.
