Skipping tiny stones into a quantum whirlpool: Researchers used numerical simulations to confirm observations of quantized vortices in superfluid helium using silicon nanoparticles, improving understanding of quantum fluids and superconductors

Researchers confirmed silicon nanoparticles are attracted to vortices in superfluid helium. Their simulations allowed them to visualize the process of vortex line recombination. The work may lead to improvements in quantum computing and optical spectroscopy.