Random Numbers via Quantum Mechanics

September 22, 2010

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute have created a device that generates random numbers by exploiting quantum-mechanical processes.

"During measurement the quantum-mechanical wave function is converted into a measured value," said researcher Christian Gabriel. "The statistics are predefined but the intensity measured remains a matter of pure chance."

The statistical spread of measured values follows a Gaussian, bell-shaped curve.

The researchers subtracted measurement curves produced by two detectors. What remained was quantum noise.

Although the device also includes a laser, a beam splitter, and other components, "We know our system very well and can calculate this noise very accurately and remove it," said Christoph Marquardt. "The vacuum fluctuations provide unique random numbers."

Gabriel, Marquardt, Christoffer Wittmann, Denis Sych, Ruifang Dong, Wolfgang Mauerer, Ulrik L. Andersen, and Gerd Leuchs reported their findings, "A Generator for Unique Quantum Random Numbers Based on Vacuum States," in Nature Photonics (August 29, 2010).

Source: Max Planck Society (September 9, 2010)