Quantum milestone: 100 years of the Stern–Gerlach experiment
Carried out 100 years ago, the Stern–Gerlach experiment was not only one of the most simple and beautiful of all time – it also provided some of the first concrete evidence that quantum physics is correct. In this month’s cover feature, Hamish Johnston explores the significance of the experiment and how the two people behind it – Otto Stern and Walther Gerlach – suffered very different fates. Elsewhere in the issue, find out about the physics of printing, tackling climate tipping points and the pressures on the physics community in Iran.
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