Quantum physics and technology

[snackster17]

Hi, i have learned some basic principles of quantum physics and and know that quantum physics has led to improvements in computers and technology. But can someone please explain to me the details on how quantum theory has improved chip size or gave way to ipods, I am i even right? did quantum theory lead to these new electronics? thank you

 

[DrChinese]

Hi, i have learned some basic principles of quantum physics and and know that quantum physics has led to improvements in computers and technology. But can someone please explain to me the details on how quantum theory has improved chip size or gave way to ipods, I am i even right? did quantum theory lead to these new electronics? thank you

Quantum theory goes back to 1927, so most everything after that is dependent on it in some way. Examples would be solid state electronics, including semiconductors, and a significant amount of modern chemistry. So really it is just a matter of how you want to attribute it.

 

[unusualname]

The quantum phenomenon of Giant Magnetoresistance has had pretty spectacular application to hard disk technology:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/3309810/iPod-hard-drive-inventors-land-Nobel-Prize.html

Quantum entanglement techniques can be used to reduce chip size. (edit: or maybe not http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/arxiv/25336/)