By producing and seeing an unusual phase of matter that only exists when forced out of equilibrium, researchers from Princeton University, Google Quantum AI, and the Technical University of Munich have made significant strides in quantum physics. The multinational team’s successful realization of a Floquet topologically ordered state for the first time using a 58-qubit superconducting quantum processor opens up new possibilities for comprehending quantum matter beyond traditional thermodynamics.
The study, which was published in Nature on September 10, shows that because of their strong entanglement, quantum computers can be effective labs for investigating phenomena that classical computers are unable to replicate. Under the direction of Tyler Cochran from Princeton and Melissa Will, the first author from TUM, the team measured exotic particle “transmutations” that had been theoretically predicted but had never been seen before and observed the distinctive dynamics of chiral edge modes.
Non-Equilibrium Quantum Matter Breakthrough
Solids and liquids are examples of traditional phases of matter that are characterized under stable, equilibrium conditions. But only when a quantum system is repeatedly forced out of equilibrium does the Floquet topologically ordered state arise, generating kinds of order that are impossible to achieve under any equilibrium conditions. Rhythmically driven in time, these so-called Floquet systems give rise to completely novel quantum behaviors that are essentially outside the realm of typical phases of matter.
In order to directly picture the distinctive directed motions at the edge of their quantum system and investigate its underlying topological features, the researchers created a novel interferometric technique. They were able to see the dynamical transmutation of unusual particles known as anyons, which alternate between two different types with twice the driving force’s time, thanks to this innovation.
Quantum Computers As Labs For Physics
Melissa Will, a PhD candidate in the Physics Department at TUM and the study’s first author, stated that “highly entangled non-equilibrium phases are notoriously hard to simulate with classical computers.” The team’s findings shows that quantum computers are powerful experimental platforms for finding and exploring completely new states of matter, in addition to being computing tools.
The basic significance was underlined by Michael Knap, TUM’s Professor of Collective Quantum Dynamics: “Our work demonstrates how quantum computers can help us explore the fundamental rules that govern our universe.” We can test hypotheses in novel ways by reproducing these interactions in the lab.
With the team’s successful implementation of quantum circuits of extraordinary depth and complexity, the experiment marks a substantial advancement in quantum simulation capabilities. They were able to investigate emergent anyonic excitations and bulk topological invariants at sizes that were previously unattainable through both experimental observation and classical simulation thanks to their 58-qubit system.
The huge and completely uncharted territory of out-of-equilibrium quantum matter can now be studied in laboratories thanks to this accomplishment, which ushers in a new era of quantum simulation. The knowledge acquired may have broad ramifications, ranging from developing next-generation quantum technologies to expanding our grasp of basic physics.