Hydrodynamic Quantum Analogs with Walking Droplets
The Physical Mathematics Lab (PML) (Intro Video) offers a wide range of interdisciplinary problems that find motivation in very diverse fields, including soft matter, fluid mechanics, biophysics and quantum mechanics. One of PML’s themes is the study of new Hydrodynamic Quantum Analogs (HQAs) with walking drops (Video). Millimetric liquid drops can walk across the surface of a vibrating fluid bath, self-propelled through a resonant interaction with their own guiding or ‘pilot’ wave fields. These walking drops exhibit features previously thought to be exclusive to the quantum realm. This system has attracted a great deal of attention as it constitutes the first known and directly observable pilot-wave system of the form proposed by de Broglie in 1926 as a rational, realist alternative to the Copenhagen Interpretation (Video & Read). At PML, we work to unveil and rationalize new HQAs, thus challenging the limits between the quantum & classical worlds. Our investigations blend experiments & mathematical modeling (theory & simulations), we can thus tailor your project according to your interests & skills. Prior research experience is not necessary, you just need to be eager to learn!