What is Quantum?

Everything physical around us is made of matter, from the air we breathe to the water we drink – even our own bodies are made of matter. In its smallest measurable form, matter is made up of atoms. Within atoms are even smaller particles called electrons, protons and neutrons – and protons and neutrons are made of even smaller units of matter called quarks. [1]

At this very small scale, the universe behaves quite differently than the everyday world we observe around us, [2] and materials’ properties – such as melting point, electrical conductivity and even color can change significantly from those at larger scales.[3]

Quantum scientists and engineers are discovering how to harness these unusual properties to create faster, more sensitive and more precise systems in electronics, including sensors, location systems, computers and medical equipment. [4] Many Montana companies are positioned to provide materials and technologies for – and jobs in – the growing industry.