Physicists find evidence of weird quantum 'Bethe strings' nearly 100 years after they were predicted
Physicists have found experimental evidence of 'Bethe strings,' which are clusters of particles predicted by quantum theory nearly 100 years ago. The study used ultracold atoms to observe these clusters, providing insight into complex particle interactions.
Why it matters
This discovery validates a fundamental quantum mechanics theory, helping scientists better understand how particles interact in complex systems like magnets and semiconductors.
Atoms confined to a single line can bind into clusters called Bethe strings. A new experiment points to a mix of many such clusters, though the evidence is still indirect.
By Larissa G. Capella Edited by Brandon Specktor , Laura Mondrag n Published 16 October 2026 In News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
An illustration of strings of particles, the foundation of elusive quantum 'Bethe strings'. (Image credit: Gremlin via Getty Images) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter "Necklaces" of ultracold atoms have provided new evidence to support a nearly 100-year-old quantum theory.
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