Electrons in Graphene Reach Supersonic Speeds, Creating Shockwave
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, NEW YORK - In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers at Columbia University have successfully pushed electrons within the ultra-thin material graphene to supersonic speeds, creating a shockwave that has left experts in awe. Led by Cory Dean, the team's feat marks a significant milestone in the field of materials science and could potentially revolutionize the way we design electronic devices.
According to Dr. Dean, the electrons were accelerated to velocities exceeding 10 kilometers per second (6.2 miles per second), creating a hydraulic jump - a phenomenon typically observed in water flows where fast-moving currents meet slower-moving ones. This achievement is particularly notable given that electrons flowing through materials are hindered by collisions with atoms, making it challenging to reach such high speeds.
"We've been able to make the electrons flow like a viscous liquid within graphene," Dr. Dean said in an interview. "But this time, we pushed them so quickly they executed a hydraulic jump, creating a shockwave."
The researchers used advanced techniques to manipulate the electron currents and create conditions for the hydraulic jump to occur. Their findings were published in a recent issue of the journal Nature.
Graphene, a highly conductive and flexible material, has been at the center of intense research in recent years due to its potential applications in electronics, energy storage, and more. The ability to control electron flow within graphene could lead to breakthroughs in fields such as quantum computing and advanced electronics.
Experts in the field are hailing this achievement as a significant step forward. "This is an incredible feat that opens up new possibilities for manipulating electron currents," said Dr. Doug Natelson of Rice University, who was not involved in the research. "It's like a sonic boom going on at the atomic level."
The team's next steps will focus on further exploring the properties of graphene and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with this remarkable material.
Background: Graphene, discovered in 2004, has been extensively studied for its unique electrical and mechanical properties. Researchers have successfully made electrons flow like a liquid within graphene before, but this achievement marks the first time they have reached supersonic speeds.
Additional perspectives:
Dr. Natelson notes that this research could lead to advancements in fields such as quantum computing and advanced electronics.
The team's findings have significant implications for the development of new materials and technologies.
Future studies will focus on exploring the properties of graphene and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with this remarkable material.
Current status: Researchers at Columbia University are continuing their work on manipulating electron currents within graphene, aiming to further explore its potential applications.
*Reporting by Newscientist.*
