Johnjoe McFadden, a British molecular geneticist and professor, has proposed a theory called "quantum biology," which suggests that some biological processes might be influenced by quantum mechanics. When he talks about life being "on the edge" or "working on the quantum edge," he's referring to the idea that certain biological phenomena may be influenced by quantum effects at the molecular level.
Traditionally, we think of biological processes as being governed by classical physics, but McFadden's theory suggests that at the quantum scale (the smallest scale of energy levels), things might operate quite differently. For example, he proposes that processes like photosynthesis and even the workings of our senses might be impacted by quantum effects.
To elaborate:
Photosynthesis: McFadden and others have proposed that the efficiency of photosynthesis in plants might be due in part to quantum coherence, where particles such as electrons can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This could allow plants to absorb energy from sunlight more efficiently.
Sensory perception: In the case of our senses, McFadden suggests that our ability to perceive things might be influenced by quantum effects in the cells of our sensory organs.
These ideas are still quite speculative and are the subject of ongoing research and debate. If proven true, they could have significant implications for our understanding of biology and potentially lead to new technologies inspired by nature's quantum tricks.
