Pushing The Boundaries Of Quantum Reality : 13.7: Cosmos And Culture : NPR
In 1989, Akira Tonomura from Hitachi in Japan managed to make single electrons interfere,
bringing the notion that matter particles behave like waves to
unprecedented clarity. A single electron passes through two slits at the
same time in order to create an interference pattern; this is why
people say that in the quantum world things can be in two places at
once.
The next step is to attempt interference experiments with viruses; and
then with actual living things. How does life respond to quantum
interference? Can something interfere with itself and remain alive? It's
a long shot from "beam me up, Scotty"; but we will only manage to do
that in 2260 if scientists keep pushing the boundaries now.
