Quantum coherence was proposed within the framework of quantum mechanics, which is a branch of physics that describes the behavior of very small particles such as atoms and subatomic particles. While there isn't a single person credited with "proposing" quantum coherence, it's a concept that emerged as physicists delved deeper into understanding the behavior of quantum systems.
Quantum coherence refers to the property of a quantum system to exist in a superposition of states. In simpler terms, it means that a quantum system can be in multiple states simultaneously until it is observed or measured. This concept is central to many aspects of quantum mechanics, including phenomena like interference and entanglement.
In practical terms, quantum coherence is important for technologies like quantum computing and quantum cryptography, where the ability to maintain coherence among quantum bits (qubits) is crucial for performing calculations or transmitting information securely.