Chemists Solve Quantum Conundrum

Chemists Pierre-Francois Loos and Peter Gill from the Australian National University have solved a famous puzzle in quantum mechanics without setting foot in a laboratory.

The scientists used a branch of mathematics called topology to crack the Schrodinger wave equation, a central plank of quantum theory. The equation relates the position of a subatomic particle, such as an electron, to its mass and energy.

They were able to solve the equation exactly using computers, finding precisely how electrons move, dodge and avoid each other. Their discovery promises to accelerate discovery through more accurate theoretical predictions of chemical reactivity.

News topics: Science

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