Quantum timekeeping is supposed to be the ultimate in efficiency, with tiny devices that tick using the rules of quantum mechanics instead of swinging pendulums or vibrating quartz. Yet new work on a ...

Observing the flow of time at the quantum scale reveals a puzzling energy phenomenon: the energy required to simply read the time astronomically exceeds that consumed by the device's operation itself.

The steady tick of a clock usually feels simple and dependable. Something swings or vibrates in a controlled rhythm and marks the passing of each moment. What you rarely notice is the hidden cost ...