🔪 Cut a photon in two? It creates an infinite number of new photons

Recall that every photon has a dual nature: it is both a localized point and a wave extending in space. The researchers imagined an ultra-fast mirror, an optical shutter, capable of cutting this wave mid-flight. If the operation succeeded, one part of the photon would be separated from the other.


By applying quantum equations to this scenario, scientists discovered a staggering result. Activating the shutter does not create a photon on one side and a vacuum on the other. Instead, it generates a superposition of states containing an infinite number of photons. This behavior stems from the fact that the quantum vacuum is not truly empty: it vibrates with electromagnetic fluctuations.

The rapid action of the shutter disrupts these fluctuations and spontaneously gives birth to new photons. This shows how much quantum reality differs from our everyday experience.

This theoretical study raises deep questions about the measurement and localization of information in quantum systems. The project's authors now intend to push their research further. They want to know if the same phenomenon occurs with multiple photons or with other elementary particles like electrons. A lead that promises more great surprises.