Quantum clock reveals the secrets of space and time

In a pioneering twist in quantum networks, physicists have proposed using entangled atomic clocks to detect how the space-time bending of gravity affects the quantum world. The work, led by researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology, University of Illinois Urbana Campen University and Harvard University, carried out a method to test quantum theory under the influence of curving space-time, a regime where Einstein and Schroding’s legacy ultimately collided.

Entangled Encounter Einstein

Einstein shows that time ticks slower in stronger gravity fields. At the same time, quantum theory flourishes in superposition, that is, particles that exist in multiple states or places at the same time. But what happens when the quantum clock spans the superposition of regions with different gravitational time flows?

That’s exactly why Igor Pikovski and colleagues aim to find out. Their research was published in PRX quantumproposes to create a distributed quantum clock – in fact, using entangled atomic nodes to distribute a “delocalized” clock across three elevations on Earth. By observing how these nodes accumulate time in different ways and perform quantum interventions mechanically, the team hopes to discover effects that can suggest limitations or modifications to quantum theory.

How it works: Clock in overlay

This protocol uses three atomic clocks built by the Ytterbium-171 atomic array. Instead of physically moving a single clock, the researchers create a quantum State W– A special entanglement – Sharing a clock on three distant nodes. This state causes the “clock” to exist in three gravitational potentials simultaneously.

Since each clock differs slightly due to the gravity of the earth, their differences accumulate with measurable quantum interference. The result signal includes:

• Three unique “beat notes” Time expansion from different heights
• Frequency shift Directly related to the curvature of the general theory of relativity
• Loss and Revival Mode Interference Visibility – Signature of Overlay Time Evolution

Not just a thought experiment

By combining quantum transmission, entangled bell pairs and photoatomic clocks, the proposed experiments are based on current technology. The study even simulates how the use of 100 GHz “superatoms” can improve sensitivity by amplifying the relativistic phase shift method, making the measurement feasible within 500 seconds of evolution time.

“We assume quantum theory is everywhere…”

“But we really don’t know if that’s true,” said Igor Pikovski, one of the authors of the study. “It could be that gravity changes the way quantum mechanics work.”

This setting also tests whether the probability properties of quantum mechanics (so-called birth rules) are held at spatiotemporal curvature. If unexpected patterns occur, physicists may eventually see that today’s theory begins to fall into trouble.

Quantum networks outside the Internet

When building quantum networks to revolutionize communication and computing, this work highlights a different boundary: using entanglement is not only about sending data, but also raising questions of natural depth. Are our most precious laws of physics still intact when space is bent and time is uneven? We may soon find out due to the quantum clocks scattered at altitudes.

Magazine: PRX quantum
doi: 10.1103/Q188-B1CR

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