What is quantum entanglement and its significance in science?.

Quantum entanglement is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics in which two or more particles become linked, such that the state of one particle instantaneously influences the state of the other, no matter the distance separating them. This phenomenon challenges classical intuitions about locality and has significant implications for fields like quantum computing, cryptography, and teleportation.

Key Facts

• Definition: Quantum entanglement involves pairs or groups of particles that remain interconnected.
• EPR Paradox: Proposed by Einstein, Podolsky, and Rosen in 1935, it questioned the completeness of quantum mechanics.
• Bell's Theorem: Demonstrated the non-classical correlations in entangled particles, affirming quantum predictions over classical ones.
• Applications: Fundamental for quantum computers, which leverage entangled states to perform computations at unprecedented speeds.

Examples or Use Cases

• Quantum Computing: Entangled particles enable parallel processing, increasing computational power.
• Quantum Cryptography: Provides theoretically unbreakable encryption methods through entangled states.

FAQs

• What is the difference between entangled and classical particles? Classical particles do not exhibit correlations that depend on distance, while entangled particles do.
• Can entangled particles be separated? Yes, entangled particles can be separated over large distances, yet their states remain linked.