Wavefunctions are what make the microscopic world of quantum physics appear so different from the macroscopic world that people operate in.

ECONOMIST: Superconductors

Normally, the microscopic wavefunctions of the electrons in a material combine in a way that blurs out their waviness on a macroscopic scale.

ECONOMIST: Superconductors

But in some circumstances, in particular at low temperatures, the wavefunctions of most of the electrons can oscillate in harmony, leading to esoteric macroscopic effects.

ECONOMIST: Superconductors

Such macroscopic wavefunctions are the stuff which superconductors are made on.

ECONOMIST: Superconductors