ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Quantum state

Quantum state is like a dice, but instead of having six sides, it can have many more. Depending on how it's rolled, the dice can end up with any one of its sides showing. In the same way, quantum objects like particles can end up in different states or configurations. We don't know what state a quantum object is in until we measure it, so it can be kind of like a surprise when we find out.