Nobel Prize in Physics Awarded for Quantum Tunneling Research

Stockholm, Oct 7 (AP) John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their pivotal research on quantum tunneling, a critical development that is significantly benefiting digital technology.

Clarke, aged 83, performed his groundbreaking research at the University of California, Berkeley; Martinis worked at the University of California, Santa Barbara, while Devoret contributed from Yale and the University of California, Santa Barbara.

“To put it mildly, it was the surprise of my life,” Clarke remarked to reporters via phone following the news of his accolade.

He commended his fellow laureates, describing their contributions as "overwhelming."

“Our discovery is, in many respects, the foundation of quantum computing. Despite the current uncertainty about its precise role, it is significant," Clarke explained. He pointed out that "our work is integral to why cellphones function as they do."

The Nobel Committee acknowledged that the laureates' 1980s research continues to unlock future possibilities for advancing quantum technology, including quantum cryptography, computers, and sensors.

“Celebrating the century-old field of quantum mechanics that keeps unfolding new surprises is a great delight," stated Olle Eriksson, Chair of the Nobel Committee for Physics. He underscored its significance, stating, "Quantum mechanics underpin all digital technology."

Quantum mechanics, now a century old, explores the bizarre subatomic realm where binary states coexist, and atomic components can pass through apparent barriers. The prize-winning trio expanded this paradigm, presenting its potential to vastly advance computing and communications.

Richard Fitzgerald, the editor-in-chief of Physics Today, commented on the significance of the work: “What these physicists achieved is to elevate imperceptible phenomena to a scale we can comprehend and build upon."

"While quantum computers are a more apparent application, quantum sensors are also viable, allowing for highly sensitive measurements of magnetic fields, among other variables. Similarly, it can enhance cryptography, safeguarding information from unwanted interception," explained Mark Pearce, astrophysics professor and member of the Nobel Physics Committee, during an interview with The Associated Press.

This is the 119th occasion the prize has been awarded. In the previous year, the physics prize was awarded to artificial intelligence trailblazers John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton for their work in creating foundational machine learning elements.

On Monday, researchers Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Dr. Shimon Sakaguchi received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their contributions to understanding the immune system's ability to distinguish between attacking germs versus the body's cells.

Nobel announcements continue with the Chemistry Prize on Wednesday and Literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be declared on Friday, and then on Oct. 13, the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

The awards ceremony is slated for Dec. 10, marking the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death in 1896, the renowned Swedish industrialist and founder of the prizes.

The esteem associated with the prizes is invaluable, and they come with a monetary award of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately USD 1.2 million).

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