ScienceDaily: Strange Science News

Physicists have introduced an approach for simulating the quantum approximate optimization algorithm using a traditional computer. Instead of running the algorithm on advanced quantum processors, the new approach uses a classical machine-learning algorithm that closely mimics the behavior of near-term quantum computers.

Imagining a song triggers similar brain activity as moments of silence in music, according to new research. The results reveal how the brain continues responding to music, even when none is playing, and provide new insights into how human sensory predictions work.

The origin and date of appearance of prehistoric cave art are the subjects of ongoing debate. Spain's Cueva de Ardales is one point of discussion. There a flowstone formation is stained red in places. This coloring is apparently almost 65,000 years old but until now, a part of the scientific community attributed it to a natural coating of iron oxide deposited by flowing water. However, that hypothesis has just been rejected.

Researchers have demonstrated a new technique to generate magnetic waves in antiferromagnets that propagate through the material at a speed much larger than the speed of sound. These so-called spin waves produce a lot less heat than conventional electric currents, making them promising candidates for future electronic devices with significantly reduced power consumption.