Why in news?
Researchers at the Raman Research Institute in India reported that quantum noise—traditionally viewed as a destructive disturbance—can under certain conditions generate or revive entanglement between particles. This insight has implications for quantum computing and communication.
Understanding quantum noise
- What is quantum noise? It refers to random fluctuations that disturb a quantum system when it interacts with its environment. These disturbances cause “decoherence,” meaning the fragile entanglement between particles breaks down.
- Origins: Quantum noise arises from fundamental uncertainties (Heisenberg’s principle) and from unavoidable interactions with thermal or electromagnetic fields.
- Types of noise channels: Amplitude damping, phase damping and depolarising noise are common models used to simulate these disturbances.
Key findings of the research
- In some systems, noise can paradoxically create entanglement between two parts of the same particle (intraparticle entanglement). This entanglement is more robust against decoherence than inter‑particle entanglement.
- Controlled introduction of noise can also revive lost entanglement in certain scenarios, offering a new way to protect quantum information.
Significance
- Paradigm shift: The research challenges the assumption that all noise is detrimental. With careful engineering, noise can be harnessed as a resource.
- Improved quantum devices: More resilient entangled states could enhance quantum communication, cryptography and computing.
- Cross‑platform relevance: The findings apply to photons, neutrons and trapped ions, suggesting broad applicability.
Conclusion
Quantum noise cannot be eliminated entirely, but understanding its nuanced role opens new avenues for building stable quantum systems. For students, this underscores the importance of research in fundamental physics and its long‑term technological impact.