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.
Expand to full screen, bookmark pages or download to read offline using the icons beneath the screen. You can access the videos and audio clips if you read the emagazine online. Read it now
Get more from Physics World without waiting for the next issue. The same great journalism, but delivered to you daily. Read updates on the latest research as soon as they happen and access 20 years of online content, organized across 13 dedicated scientific areas. Visit the homepage to start exploring.