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Researchers discover new quantum states in twisted graphene, revealing unusual electron behavior, potential for quantum computing and room-temperature superconductivity.

About Graphene

It is a material that is extracted from graphite and is made up of pure carbon.
Carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal pattern, forming a flat, two-dimensional sheet.
Graphene is only one atom thick, making it incredibly thin.
Properties:
- - Due to its unique structure, electrons can move through graphene very easily, making it a potential material for electronics.
  - It can transfer heat very efficiently.
  - Despite its thinness, graphene is incredibly strong, even stronger than steel.
  - It is transparent to visible light.

Potential applications of graphene:

- - Electronics: In transistors, flexible displays, and other electronic devices due to its high conductivity.
  - Solar cells: Enhance the efficiency of solar cells.
  - Energy storage: In batteries and supercapacitors to improve energy storage capacity.
  - Sensors: Graphene-based sensors can detect various substances due to their high surface area.
  - Composite materials: Added to other materials to improve their strength and conductivity.
  - Biomedical applications: Used for drug delivery systems and bio-imaging due to its unique properties.

Recent discovery of new quantum states in graphene

Researchers from the University of British Columbia, the University of Washington, Johns Hopkins University, and the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan have discovered a new state of matter in graphene.

It confirms theoretical projections about how electrons behave when confined in specific crystalline arrangements. It could also provide new insights into developing reliable quantum computing methods or achieving room-temperature superconductivity.

How did the researchers achieve this discovery?

They twisted the graphene sheets in a specific way, to create a moiré effect. This twisting forced the electrons to move through a unique landscape, altering their behavior and leading to the formation of a new type of electron crystal.

What is a moiré effect?

A moiré effect occurs when two patterned layers, like mesh screens, overlap and create new patterns due to their alignment.

In graphene, twisting the sheets creates a moiré pattern that disrupts the electrons' movement, and changes the electrons' speed.

What makes this new electron state different from previous discoveries?

Unlike conventional Wigner crystals, where electrons freeze into a rigid, and stop conducting electricity, this new topological electron crystal can still conduct electricity along its edges.

Way Forward

This discovery opens up new possibilities for creating more stable quantum computing units, as these electron states could make qubits more resistant to external disturbances.

The research could lead to advancements in low-resistance conductivity and room-temperature superconductors. It also unlocked entirely new areas of physics and materials science.

Must Read Articles:

GRAPHENE BASED SEMICONDUCTOR

GRAPHENE AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Source:

SCIENCE ALERT

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.In the question given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark your answer as per the codes provided:

Assertion (A): Graphene is stronger than steel.

Reason (R): Graphene has a hexagonal lattice structure with strong covalent bonds.

Which of the options given below is correct?

A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation for A.

B) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation for A.

C) A is true, but R is false.

D) A is false, but R is true.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Graphene is stronger than steel, and its extraordinary strength comes from its hexagonal lattice structure of carbon atoms bonded by very strong covalent bonds. This unique arrangement is the reason behind graphene's high tensile strength compared to steel.