Caroline Delétoille

QUANTUM NOISE

 

“Quantum research often elicits reactions ranging from curiosity and distrust to wonder, sometimes passion, and, most of the time, the fear of sounding stupid. Because approaching quantum physics often leaves one with the feeling of not understanding anything and having to accept one’s limitations, or risking engag-ing in random conversations without any grounded convictions. I wanted to take the pulse of this quantum “noise”. So I asked people (relatives, scientists, artists, strangers, etc.) what quantum physics meant to them. I assured them that there were no wrong answers (other than their plain full and honest reply) and that their anonymity would be preserved”. Caroline Delétoille, December 5th, 2024

What is quantum physics for you?

“It’s infinity and the universe • It’s a series of maths and a feeling of whirlwind • It’s nothing I don’t know, it doesn’t speak to me at all • It’s the part of physics that studies the properties of particles • It’s the infinitely small, it’s Antman in the film, he’s crazy • It reminds me of de Broglie, pulses of energy, some kind of pulse • It’s complicated mathematical calculations that allow even more complicated calculations to be made afterwards • It’s a remodelling of things, you transform your body, you become a fish, you become an eagle • It’s duality, you’re in two states at once, but I don’t quite understand • It’s researchers trying to make the computer of the future • I could have another life thanks to quantum, less chaos • First of all, confusion, so I needed to understand • It’s the particles, It’s the atom that does things that aren’t normal • It’s a hard science that studies the interactions of matter, focusing on quantas and there are ripples somewhere • It’s the physics of the vacuum • It’s the vacuum • It’s complicated, abstract, mysterious”