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Physics

Where is quantum in your everyday life?

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Quantum mechanics, the science of atoms, has enabled the invention of smartphones, solar panels and GPS navigation. Learn more about where quantum is in your everyday life.

Text: Bringing about GPS, which depends on atomic clocks to pinpoint your location on Earth
Credit: NIST
Text: Making possible the lasers and LEDs used in everything from television displays to lightbulbs.
Credit: NIST
Text: Enabling photodetectors used in smoke detectors and garage doors
Credit: NIST
Text: Making possible MRI machines that produce clear images inside your body.
Credit: NIST
Text: Giving semiconductors their useful properties that have made possible personal computers and smartphones
Credit: NIST
Text: Enabling motion detectors that activate light switches, open supermarket doors and turn on bathroom faucets
Credit: NIST
Text: Generating electricity from sunlight in solar cells
Credit: NIST
Text: Defining the kilogram, the international unit of mass
Credit: NIST

 

Created February 28, 2025