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Physics

Quantum state of matter made with 'dipolar' molecules for first time

A quantum state of matter comprising molecules with opposite charges at each end has been made for the first time. It could help probe our understanding of the quantum properties of exotic materials

By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan

29 December 2023

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Around 200 molecules were turned into a quantum state of matter

Will Lab, Columbia University

A quantum state of matter has been made for the first time using “dipolar” molecules – molecules that have a positively charged end and a negatively charged end. It could help enhance our understanding of the quantum properties of exotic materials.

Historically, to understand the inner workings of a material, researchers might probe its atomic structure. But the complexity of those structures can make it difficult to figure out how the atoms interact and how the material behaves as a whole.…

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