Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to [email protected]. Is the whole universe just a simulation?

Variational quantum algorithms (VQAs) face scalability challenges, notably barren plateaus, where the loss landscape flattens with increasing system size. Here, the authors explore an analog VQA ...

A normal yield curve features higher yields for long-term debt than short-term debt, reflecting compensation for risk and time value of money. An upward sloping curve indicates financial markets ...

401(k) contributions increase in 2025 and 2026, aiding longer-term savings growth. Qualified distributions from a 401(k) start at age 59 1/2 or separation after age 55. Early 401(k) withdrawals incur ...