We've cracked how to make random numbers
a day ago
- #randomness
- #quantum mechanics
- #digital security
- Counting-out rhymes and traditional methods like flipping coins or rolling dice are not truly random.
- True randomness is found in quantum mechanics, where quantum entities like electrons or photons make random choices.
- The Colorado University Randomness Beacon (CURBy) is the first publicly accessible source of verifiable, truly random numbers.
- Randomness is essential for digital security, machine learning, and applications like random tax audits in Chile.
- CURBy uses quantum entanglement of photons to generate randomness, making it traceable and verifiable.
- The system processes around 250,000 polarisation measurements per second to produce 512 truly random binary digits.
- CURBy's randomness is traceable using blockchain-like mathematics, ensuring no single party can manipulate the outcomes.
- The technology has potential applications in democracy, judicial systems, and clinical trials, among others.
- CURBy is designed to be compatible with future technologies, embedding true randomness into various systems.