Phi (1.6) Found at Quantum Level: Major Breakthrough?

[markyg]

So I've read that phi (1.6) has been found at the quantum level, and from what I've been told this is a major breakthrough. But I fail to see the relevance. I was wondering if anyone felt that this is a major breakthrough, and could explain this to me?

edit: posting link to article http://esciencenews.com/articles/2010/01/07/golden.ratio.discovered.a.quantum.world

 

[ZapperZ]

It's a phase transition into a particular symmetry state in a cobalt niobate compound. The actual paper was published in Science this past Friday:

R. Coldea et al., Science v.327, p. 177 (2010).

A brief review can be found at PhysicsWorld:

http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/41373

Zz.

 

[charng]

I can understand your skepticism and confusion about the significance of finding phi (1.6) at the quantum level. However, I must say that this is indeed a major breakthrough in the field of quantum physics.

Firstly, let me explain what phi (1.6) represents. It is known as the golden ratio, a mathematical constant that has been studied and revered for centuries. It is found in various natural phenomena, such as the spiral pattern of a seashell or the arrangement of branches on a tree. It is also considered aesthetically pleasing and has been used in art and architecture.

Now, finding this ratio at the quantum level is significant because it shows that this fundamental constant is present even at the smallest scale of our universe. It suggests that the golden ratio is not just a mathematical curiosity, but a fundamental aspect of the fabric of our reality.

Furthermore, the discovery of this ratio in quantum physics can potentially lead to a deeper understanding of the underlying principles that govern our universe. It could also have practical applications in fields such as nanotechnology and quantum computing.

In conclusion, while the discovery of phi (1.6) at the quantum level may not seem immediately groundbreaking, it is a significant step forward in our understanding of the universe and has the potential to have far-reaching implications in various fields of science.