Quantum physics is experiencing a second revolution, set to propel advancements in computing, the internet, telecommunications, cybersecurity, and biomedicine. This surge in quantum technologies is sparking growing interest among students eager to explore subatomic phenomena like quantum entanglement and superposition, thus unlocking the transformative potential of quantum science.

Figure 1. New Experimental System Makes Quantum Technology Accessible to Students.

However, mastering the counterintuitive principles of quantum mechanics and understanding their implications for technological progress remain significant challenges in 2025, which UNESCO has declared as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Figure 1 shows New Experimental System Makes Quantum Technology Accessible to Students.

In response, a research team from the Faculty of Physics at the University of Barcelona has developed groundbreaking experimental equipment aimed at helping students engage with complex quantum concepts. The setup is versatile, cost-effective, and adaptable for various classroom applications. It is already in use at the university’s Advanced Quantum Laboratory and, thanks to its accessibility, can be employed by institutions with fewer specialized resources, expanding opportunities for hands-on quantum education.

The innovation is featured in an article in the journal EPJ Quantum Technology, the result of a collaboration between professors Bruno Juliá (Department of Quantum Physics and Astrophysics, UB Institute of Cosmos Sciences), Martí Duocastella (Department of Applied Physics, UB Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology), and José M. Gómez (Department of Electronic and Biomedical Engineering). The project was inspired by Raúl Lahoz’s master’s final project, with contributions from experts Lidia Lozano and Adrià Brú.

Studying Quantum Phenomena

Quantum mechanics enables the creation of entangled systems — such as pairs of particles or photons — that exhibit non-intuitive behavior. In 1964, physicist John S. Bell experimentally demonstrated that quantum mechanics’ predictions contradicted classical physics, solidifying the probabilistic nature of quantum theory. In 2022, scientists Alain Aspect, John F. Clauser, and Anton Zeilinger were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for groundbreaking experiments in quantum information and the violation of Bell’s inequalities.

Quantum entanglement has become a cornerstone in developing quantum technologies like quantum computing and data encryption. “Studying Bell inequalities and observing their violations is crucial for characterizing quantum entanglement and understanding the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics,” says Bruno Juliá.

Martí Duocastella adds that the team’s equipment allows students to directly measure quantum entanglement. “We believe that giving students the ability to perform these measurements will significantly enhance their understanding of this unintuitive phenomenon,” he explains.

Introducing Students to Advanced Tools

The system developed by the UB team allows for the study of Bell inequalities and the execution of full two-photon state tomography. It can easily prepare various quantum entangled states.

This new equipment enhances the photon-capture process, utilizing detectors mounted on optical fibers. This innovation simplifies the alignment of the system, improving detection efficiency. As a result, students can perform a full Bell inequality measurement in a practical session lasting between one and two hours.

The system’s successful manipulation of photon quantum states, achievement of high-fidelity entangled states, and significant violations of Bell inequalities demonstrate its effectiveness. Moreover, the system incorporates elements widely used in current quantum technologies, providing students with hands-on experience with advanced instrumentation.

This innovation, which has already been integrated into bachelor’s and master’s courses, has garnered positive feedback from students. In the bachelor’s program, it supports experimental demonstrations in Classical and Quantum Information Theory and Quantum Mechanics. In the master’s program, it forms part of the Advanced Quantum Laboratory in the Master’s in Quantum Science and Technologies.

Source: SciTECHDaily

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2025),New Experimental System Brings Quantum Technology Within Reach of Students, AnaTechMaz, pp. 189