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Bose-Einstein condensate

A Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) is a state of matter formed when a group of atoms is cooled to near absolute zero, causing them to clump together and behave as a single quantum entity. At this low temperature, individual atoms lose their distinct identities and occupy the same space and energy state, resulting in unique properties like reduced resistance to flow, allowing for phenomena such as superconductivity. Discovered in 1995, BECs help physicists explore quantum mechanics on a macroscopic scale and have implications in fields like quantum computing and low-temperature physics.

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  • Image for Bose-Einstein condensate

    A Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) is a state of matter formed at extremely low temperatures, close to absolute zero. In this state, a group of atoms behaves as a single quantum entity, rather than as individual particles. This leads to unique properties, such as the ability to flow without resistance and to occupy the same space without colliding. The phenomenon was predicted by physicists Satyendra Nath Bose and Albert Einstein in the early 20th century, and it was first created in the lab in 1995. BECs help scientists explore the fundamentals of quantum mechanics.

  • Image for Bose-Einstein condensate

    A Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) is a state of matter formed when a group of atoms is cooled to temperatures very close to absolute zero. At this low temperature, the atoms lose their individual identities and begin to act as a single quantum entity, behaving more like waves than particles. This phenomenon was predicted by physicists Satyendra Nath Bose and Albert Einstein in the 1920s. BECs allow scientists to explore fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics and have potential applications in areas like quantum computing and precision measurement.