Research:Yakir Aharonov


Yakir Aharonov, a pioneer in the foundations of quantum theory, is well-known for his co-discovery of the Aharonov-Bohm Effect, which he made with the late physicist David Bohm. The Aharonov-Bohm Effect is one of a small number of cornerstones for optimizing quantum coherence in principle and in applications. Dr. Aharonov’s work has had a wide impact in many areas of modern physics, including optics, nuclear physics, chemistry, condensed matter physics, elementary particle physics, astrophysics, cosmology and laser and molecular physics. Some [of the practical ramifications for the Aharonov-Bohm Effect include improving the technology in electron microscope holography (which is used in modern medical scanners) and quantum computing. Quantum computers store and process information with quantum states instead of with classical bits, then we can perform tasks that are not possible with digital computers, a possibility which could potentially transform much of science. Although Dr. Aharonov does not have any graduate students, his close collaborator, Jeffrey Tollaksen, Director of the Center of Quantum Studies does, and is interested in taking on additional highly qualified students.

Retrieved from "http://www.physics.gmu.edu/wiki/Research:Yakir_Aharonov"

This page has been accessed 658 times. This page was last modified 03:04, 9 February 2008.