Researchers have made significant strides in simulating higher-order topological (HOT) lattices with remarkable precision using digital quantum computers. These intricate lattice forms are pivotal in advancing our understanding of sophisticated quantum materials that possess stable quantum states, which are in high demand for various tech applications.
Scientists at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have achieved an impressive simulation of higher-order topological (HOT) lattices utilizing digital quantum computers with unmatched accuracy. These advanced lattice designs are crucial for understanding cutting-edge quantum materials that exhibit strong quantum states, highly sought for numerous technological uses.
The exploration of topological states of matter, especially their higher-order versions, has garnered significant interest among physicists and engineers. This growing fascination is primarily due to the identification of topological insulators—materials that allow electric current to flow only along their surface or edges, keeping their inner parts insulating. Thanks to unique topological properties, electrons moving on the edges are unaffected by imperfections or changes in the material. Consequently, devices crafted from these topological substances show great promise for enhanced transport or signal transmission technologies.
Utilizing many-body quantum interactions, a team led by Assistant Professor Lee Ching Hua from NUS’s Department of Physics has devised a scalable method to represent large, complex HOT lattices that reflect genuine topological materials within the simpler spin chains currently supported by digital quantum computers. Their technique capitalizes on the vast amounts of information quantum computer qubits can hold while minimizing the demand on computing resources in a noise-resistant way. This innovation opens a new pathway for simulating advanced quantum materials through digital quantum computers, unveiling new possibilities for topological material design.
The results of this research have been published in the journal Nature Communications.
Asst Prof Lee remarked, “Prior significant studies demonstrating quantum advantage have mainly focused on highly specific, tailored problems. Our core objective is to discover new applications where quantum computers can provide distinct advantages.”
He further noted, “Our method enables us to examine the complex characteristics of topological materials on quantum computers with a degree of precision that was previously unachievable, even for theoretical materials in four-dimensional space.”
Despite the current constraints posed by noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices, the research team has successfully monitored the dynamics of topological states and the protected mid-gap spectra of higher-order topological lattices with unprecedented accuracy, made possible by cutting-edge error mitigation strategies developed in-house. This advancement illustrates the capacity of current quantum technology to venture into new realms of material engineering. The ability to simulate high-dimensional HOT lattices paves the way for new research avenues in quantum materials and topological states, hinting at a potential pathway toward realizing true quantum advantage in the future.
