Visualizing Quantum Tunneling (IMAGE) University of Chicago Caption The spheres in this image represent the atoms of a quantum magnetic material, while the arrows denote their spin (magnetic orientation). The green bars indicate coupling between atoms, and the adjacent ghosted images illustrate quantum tunneling between different spin directions, a prominent characteristic of quantum mechanical systems. This particular spin configuration displays a quantum solution to a challenging computational problem. Credit Daniel Silevitch Usage Restrictions News organizations may use this image in connection with reports about the research of Thomas Rosenbaum and his associates. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.