Events in Physics
Marshall Stoneham, UCL
Location: PS1.28
Dynamics at the Nanoscale: Making sense of scent
Even in 1900, a few leading scientists doubted atoms existed, despite the new chemical industry underpinned by atomistic ideas. In 1970, some leading figures in electronics still claimed they had no need to believe in electrons, despite the new microelectronics. Today, we readily accept that matter is quantised (atoms), as is charge (electrons). Yet many are still reluctant to see a role for the quantum phenomena recognised in Planck's constant. But when physical sciences address the nanoscale, there is no way to avoid such quantum phenomena. Even for the biosciences, it is clear that nature must exploit quantum behaviour even at ambient temperatures. One striking result is that you probably have a quantum sensor in your nose.
Even in 1900, a few leading scientists doubted atoms existed, despite the new chemical industry underpinned by atomistic ideas. In 1970, some leading figures in electronics still claimed they had no need to believe in electrons, despite the new microelectronics. Today, we readily accept that matter is quantised (atoms), as is charge (electrons). Yet many are still reluctant to see a role for the quantum phenomena recognised in Planck's constant. But when physical sciences address the nanoscale, there is no way to avoid such quantum phenomena. Even for the biosciences, it is clear that nature must exploit quantum behaviour even at ambient temperatures. One striking result is that you probably have a quantum sensor in your nose.