Concepts In Quantum Physics Research Articles

QScratch: introduction to quantum mechanics concepts through block-based programming

This article introduces QScratch, a novel educational tool designed to introduce fundamental quantum concepts and principles. It is an extension of the high-level block-based visual programming language Scratch, developed by the MIT Media Lab. The quantum concepts taught are presented in a simple and illustrative, yet rigorous way. The selection of topics and their adaptation for this project has been made taking into account the huge complexity of the subject, developing specific intuitive blocks to model the quantum behaviours of superposition, entanglement and measurement. A pilot study carried out with a group of 68 students has demonstrated the validity of the software developed as a tool for introducing complex quantum physics concepts. Thus, the proposed tool complements the original Scratch tool, advancing in the construction of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) tools that facilitate the introduction of quantum concepts to everyone.

Introductory learning of quantum probability and quantum spin with physical models and observations

Quantum probability and quantum spin are foundational concepts in quantum physics, not normally taught in pre-university education. In line with recent efforts to modernize quantum science education in schools, this paper presents learning sequences designed to provide an introductory conceptual understanding of these core physical concepts. This is achieved by choosing physical models that provide tangible classical representations that can be contrasted with quantum observations relevant to modern science and technology. This approach allows activity-based learning without the use of algebra. The concept of quantum probability is taught through activities with phasor wheels in which quantum probability is obtained graphically and interpreted using single-photon interference data. Quantum spin and spin vectors are taught by contrasting quantum spin with classical spin, explored through activities with gyroscopes and spinning tops. Quantum concepts are evoked by emphasizing how spin is different and how it manifests in real-world technologies such as magnets and MRI imaging. We describe learning sequences developed following the Model of Educational Reconstruction in which historical discoveries are combined with activities based on classical models and relevant quantum applications. We summarize test results from programs conducted with students aged 11–15. Most students connect the models and activities to quantum concepts and retain knowledge of quantum spin six months after the program. The successful learning outcomes indicate that teachers can effectively introduce quantum probability and quantum spin concepts to middle school using learning sequences such as those presented here.

Undergraduate setup for measuring the Bell inequalities and performing quantum state tomography

The growth of quantum technologies is attracting the interest of many students eager to learn concepts such as quantum entanglement or quantum superposition. However, the non-intuitive nature of these concepts poses a challenge to understanding them. Here, we present an entangled photon system which can perform a Bell test, i.e. the CHSH inequality, and can obtain the complete tomography of the two-photon state. The proposed setup is versatile, cost-effective and allows for multiple classroom operating modes. We present two variants, both facilitating the measurement of Bell inequalities and quantum state tomography. Experimental results showcase successful manipulation of the quantum state of the photons, achieving high-fidelity entangled states and significant violations of Bell’s inequalities. Our setup’s simplicity and affordability enhances accessibility for less specialized laboratories, allowing students to familiarize themselves with quantum physics concepts.

Introducing quantum physics concepts and Dirac notation at the secondary school level: Insights into student reasoning from an acceptance survey

Evidence from physics education research suggests that the introduction of a formalistic description of quantum phenomena can be beneficial to student learning, particularly in terms of helping students move away from naive realist views of quanta or space-time descriptions of quantum phenomena. However, the mathematical requirements for mastering quantum formalism are typically far beyond the scope of secondary school education. Therefore, in previous research, we have proposed a reduced Dirac notation tailored to the capabilities of secondary school students, which is included in a novel teaching-learning sequence. However, the cognitive processes of students when confronted with an introduction to quantum physics via a reduced Dirac notation have not been thoroughly investigated: In particular, it seems important to investigate whether this approach is actually beneficial to students’ learning and to explore the learning difficulties students are likely to encounter in such a setting. This paper contributes to this research gap by reporting the findings of an acceptance survey: N=14 learners participated in one-on-one interviews following a protocol consisting of four cyclical phases (information phase, acceptance evaluation, paraphrasing phase, and application phase). The findings of our study indicate that the instructional elements within our new teaching-learning sequence were generally well accepted by students but also revealed learning difficulties that students may encounter. Thus, on the one hand, the findings of this study pave the way for future research on students’ learning of quantum physics using Dirac notation. On the other hand, the in-depth findings reported here may guide teachers in designing learning environments that introduce Dirac notation at the upper secondary school and introductory university levels. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Investigating Students’ Conceptual Knowledge of Quantum Physics to Improve the Teaching and Learning Process

Research in the field of quantum physics is important for progress in many areas of exploration and development. Quantum computers and other quantum devices are promising technologies with numerous potential applications. On the other hand, understanding, interpreting, teaching, and learning quantum physics as part of an educational process is a major challenge. In the Republic of Croatia, students usually come in contact with the concepts of quantum physics towards the end of their high school education. These concepts are often abstract and represent a remarkable leap from the theories of classical physics. The aim of this study is to test the measurement properties of the instrument used to assess the progress of understanding and knowledge of quantum physics in a sample of Croatian high school students. The quantum physics conceptual survey (QPCS), developed and first tested in 2006 by Wuttiprom et al. at the University of Sydney, was the instrument we used in this study. The test was administered to 76 high school students. The results show that the QPCS test is valid and generally reliable in the context of Croatian secondary education, but for the topics Waves and particles and Uncertainty principle, the reliability needs further investigation. The results of the pretest and posttest were analysed and compared with each other and with previously published results. Quantitative methods were used to analyse the results obtained. We present several possible solutions to improve the teaching process, that we expect will lead to better results, especially for topics that are challenging for students.

In the World of Potentiality: Gombrowicz, Pinter, Beckett, and Różewicz

This article attempts to analyze Witold Gombrowicz`s, Harold Pinter`s, Samuel Beckett`s, and Tadeusz Różewicz’s works by using methods that are associated with performative literary studies. The author refers to concepts of quantum physics and introduces a new aesthetic category, “entangled arts”. Among these arts are, for example, drama and theater, which are seen from an anti-binary perspective. This approach eliminates the traditional division of arts into the art of literature and performing arts, thus leading us to look on literature as a performing art. Therefore, the idea of “entangled arts” is not about “the synthesis of arts”, but about their unresolvedness and an act of reading which requires one to simultaneously exist and be active in two (or more, potentiality) different realities, for example, in a digital and imagined world, or in film and on stage.

Development of an Interactive E-Module on the History of Quantum Physics Assisted by Flip PDF Professional

The rapid development of technology greatly affects the education system in Indonesia, especially in the use of Information Technology (IT) devices such as hardware and software in the teaching and learning process. This research focuses on developing interactive e-modules using the Flip PDF Professional application to improve students' quantum physics learning experience. This research problem addresses the difficulties faced by students in understanding quantum physics concepts, which leads to low academic achievement. This study aims to assess the feasibility and user satisfaction of the interactive e-module "History of Quantum Physics" developed with the help of the Flip PDF Professional application. The research method used is ADDIE (Analyse, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) which involves validation by material experts and trials on physics education students at two universities. The results showed that the feasibility of interactive e-modules of quantum physics history by media and material experts obtained results that were feasible to be tested without revision with a percentage of 81.8%. So that the e-module can be tested on undergraduate and postgraduate physics education students. User satisfaction test results show that e-modules can be used as a support for quantum physics learning media with a satisfaction percentage of 91.33% or very satisfied.

양자물리학의 개념들을 통한 ‘육신의 부활’의 유비적 이해

Christianity is a religion that believes and professes that Jesus Christ is the one who saves us. However, there is one event that we must understand in order to explain this important concept of salvation: the event of Jesus’ resurrection. Unfortunately, we are in an ambiguous situation where we don’t know much about the event of Jesus’ resurrection and the ‘bodily resurrection’ that he promised us. Therefore, in this age of natural sciences, it is timely proper to borrow their languages and concepts to try to analogically understand the event of Jesus’ resurrection and our bodily resurrection. Therefore, this paper attempts to understand analogically both the characteristics of the resurrected body of Jesus Christ and the meaning of our bodily resurrection through the ‘language and concepts of quantum physics’. In doing so, it is emphasized that a broad understanding of quantum physics can be of great help in understanding the event of Jesus’ resurrection. It also proposes that our bodily resurrection may be fully understood if it is accepted as an ‘event having a quantum body’ like Jesus Christ, that is to say, as a ‘transition event from a classical body to a quantum one’.

Використання засобів комп’ютерного моделювання з метою підвищення інтересу учнів до вивчення фізики

The article analyzes scientific research on the problem of the development of cognitive interest: the essence of the concept of "cognitive interest" is considered, the features of the formation of students' cognitive interest in physics classes are described. The directions of the introduction of information technologies into the educational process are characterized, which include the development and practical use of scientific and practical support, the high-quality and effective use of software, computer training and knowledge control systems, the systematic integration of these technologies into existing educational processes and organizational structures. It has been found that conducting experiments that are difficult or impossible to reproduce in a real experiment can be effectively implemented based on the use of multimedia models. Possibilities of using computer modeling during the study of physics are offered. It has been confirmed that the use of computer simulation elements is appropriate and justified during the study of educational material, for which conducting various kinds of educational physical experiments is limited. This is the study of the basic concepts of quantum physics. The peculiarities of the study of the "Quantum optics" section are described, in which special attention is paid to the study of the phenomenon of the photoeffect. Examples of interactive computer models are given, the use of which makes it possible to increase the interest of students in studying this material in physics, to stimulate the formation and development of cognitive activity and creative thinking, to form in students an idea of the phenomena of the microcosm, their regularities, and the modern physical picture of the world.

Analysis of Quantum Physics Lectures from the Perspective of the MBKM and OBE Based Higher Education Curriculum

Lecture analysis in the core courses of the study program contributes to the evaluation of the curriculum used. This field study was carried out to analyze Quantum Physics lectures from the perspective of a university curriculum based on Independent Learning Campus (MBKM) and Outcome-Based Education (OBE). Data collection techniques were carried out through observing the implementation of learning in the Quantum Physics course, interviews with lecturers teaching quantum physics courses, and reviewing curriculum tools in the form of curriculum books, semester lecture plans (RPS), and assessment documents. The instruments used refer to content standards, process standards and learning assessment standards listed in Permendikbud Number 3 of 2020, Permendikbudristek Number 56 of 2022, and Permendikbudristek Number 53 of 2023. The participants involved in this research were a lecturer and 29 students of the undergraduate physics education study program at one of the universities in Garut Regency. The lecturer in question is a lecturer who teaches quantum physics courses, while the students in question are final year students who are taking quantum physics courses in the odd semester of the 2023/2024 academic year. Data collection was carried out over the period October – November 2024. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively using a data triangulation approach. The results of data analysis show that in the Bachelor of Physics Education curriculum, the Quantum Physics course is in the group of upper-level compulsory courses with physics concept study material. From an MBKM perspective, this course can be converted to Program Pertukaran Mahasiswa (PMM) and Program Magang dan Studi Independen Bersertifikat (MSIB), but cannot be converted to the Teaching Campus Program. Conversion to the PMM program is carried out by taking courses in other study programs that have course learning outcomes that are related to quantum physics. Conversions to the MSIB program are carried out at companies or agencies related to the application of quantum physics concepts. From an OBE perspective, this course contributes to graduate learning outcomes in Specific Skills and supports the graduate's profile as a Physics Teacher. The special skill in question is being able to apply mathematical models in explaining physical phenomena in learning.

The Integration of Artificial Intelligence-Based Applications in Digital Learning and Teaching Methods of Quantum Physics: A Literature Review

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based applications has become increasingly widespread in the context of digital learning following the COVID-19 pandemic, where this technology has facilitated the teaching and learning (T&L) process virtually. Although various digital applications have been introduced in T&L methods, understanding the trends in AI-based application usage and its effectiveness in mastering Quantum Physics topics remains underexplored. Quantum Physics topics involve abstract concepts and often result in many misconceptions in students' understanding, leading to difficulties in mastering these topics. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify how the integration of AI-based applications in digital learning and T&L methods can empower T&L approaches in Quantum Physics. A systematic literature review was conducted on sources published from 2018 to 2024, covering 26 relevant journal articles and books. The findings indicate that the trend of using AI-based applications in Quantum Physics T&L methods is increasing globally, along with evidence of its effectiveness in enhancing students' interest, engagement, and understanding of abstract concepts through more dynamic and interactive approaches. T&L methods that involve interaction with learning content, such as the PopAi platform, can increase students' interest and engagement by simplifying the teaching of highly complex quantum physics concepts. Therefore, digital learning readiness also needs to be enhanced, including digital infrastructure and operational skills, so that the full potential of this AI technology can be harnessed in line with the success of the education revolution 4.0. Additionally, it can prepare future generations to be skilled in digital technology, ready to face challenges and opportunities in the era of technological advancement. In conclusion, the use of AI technology in Quantum Physics T&L methods is increasing, along with evidence of its effectiveness in improving students' achievement and interest in Quantum Physics T&L.

Experimental and Didactical Strategy to Improve Understanding of the Fundamental Concepts in Quantum Physics.

Quantum physics is an essential theory serving to explore nature at its smallest scales. Interaction between elemental particles in matter is leading toward new potential alternatives for producing decarbonized clean energies. Despite its importance, students find difficulties in understanding quantum mechanics due to a wrong categorization of the fundamental concepts. Studying quantum physics needs a new flexible ontology in which the quantum entity can have particle or wave properties depending on the context. We developed a workshop in quantum devices to put concepts into the correct conceptual categorization. With the aim of strengthening interinstitutional exchange, we realized the workshop with a population conformed by environmental engineering students of the Corporación Universitaria Uniagraria. Meeting took place in the Institución Universitaria Politécnico Grancolombiano facilities. Laser, LED (Light Emitting Diode), and photocell were the devices used to introduce the most fundamental concepts of quantum physics. The theoretical component of the workshop was divided into two main elements, the first, radiation-matter interaction, and the second, electrical transport mechanisms in materials. Pedagogical instruments employed were diagnostic proof, evaluative proof, and satisfaction inquiry. Despite the success achieved in the general realization of the workshop, students suggested some aspects for considering in future versions.

The core of secondary level quantum education: a multi-stakeholder perspective

Quantum physics (QP) education at the secondary school level is still in its infancy. Not only is there ongoing discussion about how to teach this subject, but there is also a lack of coherence in the selection of concepts to be taught, both across countries and over time. To contribute to this discussion, we investigated the perspectives of N=39\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$N= 39$\\end{document} high school teachers, university-level physics educators, and physics education researchers regarding the essential concepts in QP and the corresponding illustrations that should be introduced at the secondary school level. We examined the prominence of different key concepts and illustrations, as well as the level of consensus among the various professional groups. Our analysis revealed that certain key concepts are universally valued across all professional groups, while others are specific to particular groups. Additionally, we explored the relationships between these key concepts and their corresponding illustrations. Overall, our study offers valuable insights into the perspectives of different stakeholders, emphasizing the essential concepts and visualizations that should be considered when designing and implementing the teaching of QP at the secondary school level.

A 5E-based learning experience to introduce concepts relevant in Quantum Physics

We here present and discuss a 5E-based learning activity focused on introductory concepts of Quantum Physics experienced at the Bachelor of Electrical Engineering of a Kenyan University. The described constructivist environment aimed at supporting an effective understanding of concepts very relevant in Modern Physics, such as wave-particle dualism, discretization, de Broglie wavelength, Heisenberg Uncertainty principle, atomic models, particle in a box, etc., by triggering a chain of reasoned investigation, inquiry, problem solving, and collaboration with peers. As it is well known, the 5E-based learning cycle is a student-centred instructional approach which helps learners to broaden their views on the concepts and link together the ideas, by means of five phases of instruction: Engagement, Exploration, Explanation, Elaboration, and Evaluation. Our findings show the proposed workflows successfully engaged students into active learning, stimulating the activation of the inquiry process and, at the same time, supporting the clarifying of important experimental and technological aspects of modern physics. This learning path represents a feasible example of a combination of a traditional lecture-based teaching method with laboratory and computational activities.

Entropy in literature and philosophy

Quantum physics is uniquely equipped as a science to abridge the gap between the physical and the spiritual, the human and the animal. How this abridgment may come about will be shown in an examination of the basic concepts of quantum physics, highlighting entropy; of Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophy, notably the work Repetition; a selection of modern literary works; illustrations of quantum mechanics provided by links to impressionist and abstract painting; a sound track and video emulating thunder, and a discussion of music.

Computer models as a means of improving the effectiveness of teaching physics

Computer models and programs are one of the main tools in education, therefore, the development of a plan for their development and use in the field of education is one of the main problems. The use of computer models will help to explore a new topic, a demonstration experiment and phenomena without violating safety regulations. Many experts believe that the computer currently makes it possible to make a qualitative breakthrough in the education system. Models of physical phenomena and experiments actively shape students' knowledge. In teaching a number of sections of the physics course, such as atomic and nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, and elementary particle physics, essential questions about conducting experiments are obvious. These sections relate to important areas of physics that deal with the study of phenomena and processes in the microcosm. Therefore, due to some difficulties in equipping physics classrooms, the computer acts as an assistant. In quantum physics and atomic physics, computer models are considered that help explain the phenomena under study, the course of processes, as well as methods of working with computer programs that simulate laboratory installations in this section, since physical laboratory assistants are an integral part of training. The use of computer models and programs for educational purposes gives students a unique opportunity to plunge into the world of quantum and atomic physics. This study analyzes the effectiveness of such models in the educational process, their impact on students' understanding of the basic concepts of quantum and atomic physics, and also compiles questionnaires based on these problems. The survey covers about 40 physics teachers. The work is based on the analysis of existing pedagogical experiments and research in the field of application of computer models for teaching physics. The focus is on assessing the impact of these models on the quality of knowledge and their ability to make complex concepts accessible and understandable to students. The obtained results can serve as a basis for further improvement of methods of teaching quantum and atomic physics using computer programs. The introduction of computer programs can help the student create an effective learning environment for his work at his own pace and in collaboration with the class. It can be said that the use of models of physical processes in preparing students for effective learning opens up great opportunities for creating high-quality and new forms and methods, the use of computer models of physical phenomena plays an important role. Of particular importance in the development of students' abilities to observe, think, generalize based on observed facts, and predict the course of the observed process.

Quantum agriculture and experimental detection of wheat flour quality using thermal image technology

Crop quality and productivity are the fundamental strategies of agricultural practice and technology; consequently, one of the priorities in agriculture is to be aware of new and innovative field experiments and production practices. The effectiveness of innovative practices and resources is influenced by a multitude of factors. This study aimed to propose a new quantum-based approach in agriculture using homoeopathic methodology which incorporates theories and concepts of quantum physics and employs a wave-based methodology for the functional measurement phase. A novel utilization of thermal imaging technology is suggested, wherein each pixel of the image indicates the wave parameters, frequency, or amplitude of wave, is proposed to analyse the functional information of the plant. The relationship between the new quantum-agriculture-based method and the functional characteristics of flour as measured by bio-photonic emissions was estimated, and the findings of this preliminary study on wheat flour are presented. Our preliminary results (i) confirm the superior performance of quantum agriculture (QA) based proposed soil and plant treatments, and (ii) suggest that quantitative analysis based on precise measurements of biophoton emission will provide a novel reliable tool for monitoring the quality of wheat in the future. Further investigations are required to replicate the results of this study under different environmental conditions. Additionally, incorporating comparative chemical analyses that would enhance our knowledge of the proposed agronomic practice.

Addressing Learning Difficulties in Junior High School Physics Education: Insights for Curriculum Development and Teaching Strategies

This research delves into the intricate analysis of students' learning difficulties in comprehending physics material at the junior high school level. Through a comprehensive investigation involving mixed-methods research, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, the study sought to identify prevalent misconceptions, cognitive barriers, and socio-economic factors influencing students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts. The research illuminated the pervasive misconceptions encountered by students, particularly in areas related to force and motion, energy conservation, wave behavior, electricity, and abstract concepts in quantum physics. Cognitive barriers, stemming from the abstract nature of physics principles and the incongruence with everyday experiences, posed significant challenges for students in comprehending these complex concepts. Insights from this research emphasized the critical need for innovative pedagogical approaches, integrated with real-world applications, to bridge the gap between abstract scientific principles and students' experiences. Curriculum reforms aimed at contextualizing physics concepts and accommodating diverse learning styles were identified as crucial for fostering an engaging and effective learning environment. Moreover, the study shed light on socio-economic disparities that influenced students' readiness and access to resources, advocating for equity in educational support and opportunities. The findings from this research have far-reaching implications, calling for systemic changes in teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and policy initiatives to enhance the learning experience in physics education. The research serves as a beacon for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers, guiding them toward transformative changes essential for nurturing a generation of students equipped with a deeper understanding of fundamental scientific principles in physics.

Building an Effective Classifier for Phishing Web Pages Detection: A Quantum-Inspired Biomimetic Paradigm Suitable for Big Data Analytics of Cyber Attacks.

To combat malicious domains, which serve as a key platform for a wide range of attacks, domain name service (DNS) data provide rich traces of Internet activities and are a powerful resource. This paper presents new research that proposes a model for finding malicious domains by passively analyzing DNS data. The proposed model builds a real-time, accurate, middleweight, and fast classifier by combining a genetic algorithm for selecting DNS data features with a two-step quantum ant colony optimization (QABC) algorithm for classification. The modified two-step QABC classifier uses K-means instead of random initialization to place food sources. In order to overcome ABCs poor exploitation abilities and its convergence speed, this paper utilizes the metaheuristic QABC algorithm for global optimization problems inspired by quantum physics concepts. The use of the Hadoop framework and a hybrid machine learning approach (K-mean and QABC) to deal with the large size of uniform resource locator (URL) data is one of the main contributions of this paper. The major point is that blacklists, heavyweight classifiers (those that use more features), and lightweight classifiers (those that use fewer features and consume the features from the browser) may all be improved with the use of the suggested machine learning method. The results showed that the suggested model could work with more than 96.6% accuracy for more than 10 million query-answer pairs.

School Science Education and Quantum Physics

Interest in quantum physics among the general public has been increasing along with various practical applications such as quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum sensing, as well as their economic expansion. This close relationship with everyday life highlights the necessity for non-specialists to understand basic concepts of quantum physics, not only for physicists and related fields. Since 2000, there has been a noticeable movement in international physics education journals to include quantum physics in high school curricula, and recent papers suggest some agreement on core concepts that can be covered at the high school level across various countries. In this article, the basic concepts of quantum physics covered in high school physics education in Korea and abroad are reviewed, and suggestions are made for future topics that should be addressed in physics education research.