We forge ahead with scientific quests,
but even zealous efforts hit a wall
trying to make what nature most detests:
nothing at all.
It seems like such a little thing to do—
removing every molecule. We find
that though we displace almost all, a few
remain behind.
It takes attentive planning and robust
equipment in a lab to do the chore
of pumping vacuum pressure down to just
a millitorr.
The stalwart researcher persists and loses
sleep, but can’t reach perfection—I’m afraid
the universe still stubbornly refuses
to be unmade.
Even in deepest space, a cubic meter
contains some particles. We must assess
there is no void, although conditions teeter
on emptiness.
The quantum mysteries will vex and weary
the brightest mind, the sharpest physicist.
True nothingness, while wonderful in theory,
does not exist.
Read full article: No Vacancy
The post “No Vacancy” by Steven Searcy was published on 09/29/2025 by spectrum.ieee.org