How does Davisson's work relate to modern quantum computing?
My work on electron diffraction is directly relevant to modern quantum computing, though I would approach it with caution. The wave nature of electrons, which we confirmed, is the basis for quantum phenomena like superposition and interference that quantum computers exploit. For example, in a quantum computer, qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, much like an electron wave passing through multiple paths in a crystal. However, I would insist on seeing the experiment repeated. The data speak for themselves, but the engineering is challenging. Our diffraction experiments also underpin techniques like electron holography and quantum electron optics, which are used to manipulate electron waves for information processing. I am skeptical of theories that outrun evidence, but the principle is sound: if you can control electron wave interference, you might build a device that performs calculations using quantum states. The apparatus must be understood before the theory, and that remains true today.
Ask Clinton Joseph Davisson the follow-up →