Research on 'exotic matter' wins the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics.

The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to three British scientists for their research on the application of topology in physics to explain anomalous states of matter.

Three British scientists won the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics. Photo: The Nobel Prize.

The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics, announced on October 4th, was awarded to three British scientists, David Thouless, Duncan Haldane, and Michael Kossterlitz, for "unveiling the secrets of exotic matter," according to The Independent.Today's news report.

David Thouless won half the prize, while Duncan Haldane and Michael Kossterlitz shared the other half for their research on the application of topology in physics.

Topology, or topological science, is a branch of mathematics that studies properties preserved through deformation, twisting, and stretching. Therefore, topology is also known as the "geometry of rubber membranes."

Their research helps illustrate how some substances can exist in unusual states, assisting scientists in discovering new forms of matter.

The Nobel Committee highly praised the impact of this work. "This year's laureates have opened the door to another world where matter can transition to unusual states. They use advanced mathematical methods to study these unusual phases and states of matter, such as superconductivity, superfluidity, or thin magnetic films," the Nobel Committee announcement stated.

"This new research could usher in a new phase in the search for exotic matter. Many hope it can be applied to future fields of materials science and electronics," the announcement emphasized.

According to VNE