Physicists John Clarke, Michel Devoret, and John M. Martinis have been jointly awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics. Their monumental achievement lies in the discovery of macroscopic quantum tunnelling and the quantization of energy within an electrical circuit. Remarkably, they demonstrated that the elusive principles of quantum mechanics could operate on a scale visible to the human eye, literally “large enough to fit in your hand.”
In their groundbreaking experiments, a miniature superconducting circuit showed electrons collectively tunnelling through a barrier as a single quantum wave system. This profound work represents a pivotal bridge, transforming the abstract theories of quantum physics into tangible, real-world technology.
Unlocking New Horizons for Quantum Technology
The chair of the Nobel Committee emphasized the profound impact of quantum mechanics, stating it forms “the foundation of all digital technology.” Dr. Clarke himself noted that their breakthrough significantly contributed to the emergence of quantum computers. Indeed, their findings are fundamental to modern quantum electronics, specifically paving the way for today’s superconducting qubits – a core component in the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing.
The official Nobel statement also highlighted the potential for new applications in “quantum cryptography, quantum computers, and quantum sensors.” This implies a future where their discoveries could enable unprecedented advancements in secure communication, complex computation, and highly sensitive measurement devices.
Quantum Tunnelling at a Tangible Scale
Conventional quantum mechanics theory suggests that particles can “tunnel” through energy barriers even when they lack sufficient energy to overcome them. What Clarke, Devoret, and Martinis strikingly revealed was that this phenomenon isn’t limited to individual particles but can occur collectively among a vast number of them.
During the 1980s, they meticulously engineered a Josephson junction – a setup involving two superconductors separated by a thin insulating layer. When a small current was applied, they observed sudden, distinct spikes in voltages. These spikes were direct evidence that trillions of superconducting electrons had all tunnelled together simultaneously. This is akin to observing a ball mysteriously passing through a brick wall, now demonstrated within the confines of a hand-sized circuit – a truly astonishing feat that reshaped our understanding of quantum behavior.