Quantum
mechanics had enormous success in explaining many of the features of
our world. Quantum mechanics is often the only tool available that can
reveal the individual behavior of subatomic particles that make up all
forms of matter.
Quantum mechanics is also critically important for understanding how individual atoms combine covalently to form molecules—helping chemists make better products through groundbreaking materials research. Most modern technological inventions operate at a scale where quantum effects are significant—the laser, the transistor (and thus the microchip), the electron microscope, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study of semiconductors led to the invention of the diode and the transistor, sensitive parts that run virtually all modern electronics systems and devices.
Researchers are currently looking at more consistent methods of directly manipulating quantum states. A lot of work is being done to make quantum cryptography within network communications possible and allow absolutely secure transmission of information. Though slow in development, quantum computers may eventually perform certain computational tasks exponentially faster than classical configured computers.
