Quantum computer’s new insights into how the universe we know could collapse

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https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/physics/quantum-computer-universe-collapse/

Quantum computer’s new insights into how the universe as we know it could collapse

February 4, 2025

Quantum field theory suggests that the very structure of the universe could change, altering cosmos as we know it. A new quantum machine might help probe this elusive phenomenon, while also helping improve quantum computers.

True or false?

It’s a life-or-death question
Nearly 50 years ago, quantum field theory researchers proposed that the universe exists in a “false vacuum”. This would mean that the stable appearance of the cosmos and its physical laws might be on the verge of collapse.

The universe, according to this theory, could be transitioning to a “true vacuum” state.

The theory comes from predictions about the behaviour of the Higgs field associated with the Higgs boson, which Cosmos first looked at nearly a decade ago – the article is worth reading.

In short, like an electric or magnetic field, the Higgs field has a “potential” which determines its strength.

Potential can be thought of like a cart on a rollercoaster. The higher the cart is on the rollercoaster track, the more potential energy it has.

The Higgs potential determines whether the universe is in a true vacuum state or a false vacuum state.

A true vacuum is the lowest energy state and, therefore, stable. It’d be like the cart resting on a low, flat section of the rollercoaster track.

A false vacuum is like the cart getting stuck on a steep section of the track. A slight nudge could send the cart tumbling to a lower energy state.

Credit: Professor Zlatko Papic, University of Leeds, (Image created using Povray).