Birth of quantum mechanics and its applications
The year 2025 marks exactly 100 years since quantum mechanics emerged as an independent scientific discipline. A century on, it continues to demonstrate its enduring vitality and pivotal role in modern science. Quantum mechanics is regarded as one of the greatest achievements of modern science. Since the early discoveries of the 20th century, it has not only transformed humanity’s understanding of the microscopic world, but has also led to a vast array of breakthroughs across various technological fields, from electronics, computing, and communications to biomedicine and artificial intelligence.
The event featured leading quantum physics experts from research institutes and universities, including Prof. Dr. Dao Tien Khoa, Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute; Prof. Dr Nguyen The Toan, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi; and Prof. Dr. Do Van Na, Phenikaa University. The event was held in a hybrid format, both in-person and online via Zoom, and was livestreamed on the Science and Technology Bulletin Facebook page and the Vietnam Physical Society's Facebook page.
Ms Nguyen Thi Van Nga, Director of the Institute of Scientific data and Information, delivers the opening remarks
In her opening speech, Ms Nguyen Thi Van Nga, Director of the Institute of Scientific data and Information , stated that in recent years, the Centre, in collaboration with units within and beyond VAST, has successfully organised a range of public lectures to bring scientific and technological knowledge closer to the community, thereby fostering a culture of learning and a passion for science in society.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Quang Liem – President of the Vietnam Physical Society – expressed his belief that the lectures presented at the event would provide audiences with genuinely valuable and engaging insights. He emphasized that the Society continues to encourage secondary school students to pursue studies in physics and science and technology. In recent years, the Society has been particularly active in inspiring young students to understand what physics is, what science and technology entail, and the importance of physics in contributing to national development.
With the theme “The Birth of Quantum Mechanics and Its Applications”, the programme comprised three lectures. Though advanced in nature, these lectures were accessible and offered a multi-dimensional perspective on the development of quantum physics, from theoretical foundations to modern applications.
Prof. Dr Dao Tien Khoa, Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute – delivers the lecture “The origins of quantum mechanics, the uncertainty principle, quantum tunnelling, and the Pauli exclusion principle”
The first lecture, entitled “The origins of quantum mechanics, the uncertainty principle, quantum tunnelling, and the Pauli exclusion principle”, was delivered by Prof. Dr. Dao Tien Khoa of Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute. It offered audiences a deeper understanding of the major figures in modern physics, whose foundational discoveries led to the formation of quantum mechanics. The talk focused on the physical significance and critical role of early quantum theory milestones such as the uncertainty principle, quantum tunnelling, and the Pauli exclusion principle, serving as a gateway to the fundamentals of quantum physics.
Prof. Dr Nguyen The Toan, University of Science, VNU Hanoi, presents “Quantum physics in the 21st century: From quantum computing and information to molecular biopharmaceutical systems”
In the second lecture, the origins of quantum mechanics, the uncertainty principle, quantum tunnelling, and the Pauli exclusion principle, Prof. Dr Nguyen The Toan of the University of Science, VNU Hanoi, introduced audiences to a number of foundational and philosophical issues surrounding new concepts and principles such as quantum realism and indeterminacy, which stand in contrast to classical physics. He also discussed the broad spectrum of applications, from quantum computing to pharmaceutical design and biomedical applications, areas in which he has recently conducted extensive research.
Prof. Dr Do Van Nam, Phenikaa University, shares insights in “From basic research to the design of quantum devices”
In his lecture, “From basic research to the design of quantum devices,” Prof. Dr Do Van Nam of Phenikaa University focused on the progression over time from fundamental research to breakthrough applications of quantum theory in everyday life. He highlighted milestones such as the discovery of semiconductors and the design of electronic components, which are now found in virtually all modern machinery and devices.
During the event, the speakers and attending scientists engaged in a lively discussion and Q&A session, delving further into the topics raised by the three presenters, sharing insights from their academic and research experiences to real-world applications.
Through this lecture series, the organizers aim to foster a love for science, connect younger generations of researchers with foundational knowledge, and enhance public understanding of the scientific advances shaping the future of global technology. It also serves to inspire students and the wider public to pursue scientific research, especially in physics.
Translated by Tuyet Nhung
Link to Vietnamese version
