The Magic of Quantum Superposition

Quantum superposition refers to a principle in quantum mechanics that holds that any two (or more) quantum states can be added together, or 'superposed', and the result will be another valid quantum state.

Imagine placing a cat in a box with a deadly poison that will be released if a single radioactive atom decays.

The radioactive decay is a quantum process, meaning that before observation, the atom is in a superposed state of having both decayed and not decayed.

According to the principles of quantum mechanics, this superposition would theoretically extend to the cat as well, placing it in a superposed state of being both alive and dead.

This is the basis of the famous Schrödinger's cat thought experiment, a bizarre and counterintuitive effect of the principle of quantum superposition.

However, quantum superposition plays a crucial role in technologies like quantum computing and telecommunications..