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Transitions between the topologically distinct vacuum sectors induce a chiral asymmetry in hot quark–gluon matter via a process analogous to the baryogenesis in the early Universe. This may soon be detected in heavy-ion collisions through the chiral magnetic effect.
Designing new experiments in physics is a challenge for humans; therefore, computers have become a tool to expand scientists’ capabilities and to provide creative solutions. This Perspective article examines computer-inspired designs in quantum physics that led to laboratory experiments and inspired new scientific insights.
Magnetic skyrmions, two-dimensional nanometre-scale localized states, are promising candidates for new technological applications. This Perspective surveys the progress in this field and offers a brief, accessible guide to the basic physical principles of magnetic skyrmions.
Neuromorphic computing takes inspiration from the brain to create energy-efficient hardware for information processing, capable of highly sophisticated tasks. Including more physics in the algorithms and nanoscale materials used for computing could have a major impact in this field.
Droplets in general are multicomponent and experience gradients in concentration, often leading to transport phenomena and phase transitions. This Perspective discusses recent progress on the physicochemical hydrodynamics of such droplet systems and their relevance for many important applications.
Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) imaging methods use light scattered from multiple surfaces to reconstruct images of scenes that are hidden by another object. This Perspective summarizes existing NLOS imaging techniques and discusses which directions show most promise for future developments.
Due to their atomic structure, ultracold alkaline-earth atoms are well suited for quantum simulation and the study of quantum many-body physics. This Perspective overviews the ways to control the interactions between atoms and discusses the new physics that could be uncovered.
Substantial progress has been made towards making fusion a source of commercial energy. One challenge is the damage that filamentary plasma eruptions cause to plasma-facing components. This Perspective summarizes what is understood about these eruptions and strategies for controlling them.
