SMRTR Science & EngineeringJul 9, 2026Live Science

'Complex numbers are not needed for quantum mechanics': Physicists develop quantum model that uses only 'real' numbers for first time ever

SMRTR summary

Physicists have built a working version of quantum mechanics using only "real" numbers, settling a century-long debate about whether complex numbers are fundamental to the theory. By replacing a standard mathematical rule with a new bookkeeping system, researchers showed complex numbers are just a convenient tool, not a requirement.

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