New Quantum Theory Links Light and Matter.

Physicists from City University of Hong Kong have developed a new quantum theory that explains the "light-induced phase" of matter and predicts its novel functionalities. The new theory has the potential to revolutionize the field of quantum photonics and quantum control at room temperature, opening the door to a variety of next-generation light-based applications, such as optical communications, quantum computing, and light-harvesting technologies. The new theory integrates advanced quantum electrodynamics into ultrafast spectroscopy, explaining the excited state dynamics and optical properties of molecules in real-time, overcoming the bottlenecks resulting from existing theories and techniques.