Scottish artist marks 100 years of Schrödinger equation with new installation

Scottish artist Gregor Harvie has unveiled a new installation called Superposition to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Erwin Schrödinger's groundbreaking equation. Collaborating with the quantum theory group at the University of Glasgow, Harvie's work explores two core aspects of quantum physics: superposition and entanglement. The installation consists of 16 aluminum panels, each with hundreds of holes drilled through them, forming intricate patterns.

When approached, the panels start spinning at 400rpm, creating shifting three-dimensional illusions. The panels are divided into eight pairs, with one side white and the other colored. As the panels stop, seven pairs display the same side as their partner approximately 50% of the time, symbolizing superposition. However, the eighth pair behaves differently, with the two panels often showing the same side 75% of the time, representing entanglement.

Harvie, who holds a PhD in computational fluid dynamics, aims to immerse viewers in the quantum world by placing them in the midst of a paradoxical artwork. He notes that the panels appear empty but transform into something remarkable when spun rapidly. The artwork's form changes based on the viewer's perspective, and one pair defies conventional logic, challenging our understanding of reality.

Theoretical physicist Stephen Barnett from the University of Glasgow believes Superposition allows everyone to experience the "strangeness" of quantum mechanics and question the nature of reality. The artwork will be exhibited at the Technology and Innovation Centre at the University of Strathclyde from October 20 to 29.