An Atomic View of Quantum Phase Transitions.

The article discusses research reported elsewhere in the issue by Bakr et al. on quantum phase transformations of individual atoms. The article introduces the research by noting gaps that exist in understanding the physics of quantum-mechanical phases. The noted research team reportedly used a so-called quantum gas microscope to observe and study atoms as they transformed between quantum phases. The experimental process is described with reference to the holographic technique used to create a square crystal lattice.