Quantum physics requires imaginary numbers to explain reality

Theories based only on real numbers fail to explain the results of two new experiments

physicist Yali Mao working with highly technical physics apparatus

To explain the real world, imaginary numbers are necessary, according to a quantum experiment (shown) performed by a team of physicists including Yali Mao (pictured) of the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, China.

Jingyun Fan

Imaginary numbers might seem like unicorns and goblins — interesting but irrelevant to reality.