“Ocean temperatures and stored heat are rising at an accelerating rate, which cannot be explained by current climate models. However, quantum-thermal physics provides a mechanism to explain this acceleration. This mechanism predicts that the total stored heat and near surface temperatures will cease rising at ever faster rates only once the greenhouse gas content of the atmosphere stabilises.”

This is an excerpt of an article by Emeritus Professor Geoff Smith, from the University of Technology Sydney, on the quantum phenomena responsible for ocean warming. The full article appears in the next edition of Australian Physics, on its way to Member’s mailboxes next week.

The following excerpt by Professor Jared Cole, RMIT University, Associate Professor Trevor Finlayson, the University of Melbourne, and Dr Kirrily Rule, ANSTO, reflects on the status of Australian condensed matter research.

“Research in this area is recognised for its remarkable depth and breadth, driven by a strong desire to establish Australia as a major player on the global stage of cutting-edge research. This article considers some of the ingredients that are key to the success of condensed matter physics in Australia, both historically and into the future.”

Members receive the Australian Physics magazine every quarter. Join the AIP to receive this and other benefits.