Another step forward in storing and distributing quantum information

Introduction

Binary or regular computers make sense of the data we input by processing information in “bits,” which can exist in two states: 0 or 1. Quantum computers use quantum bits, or “qubits,” which can exist in any superposition of 0 or 1 states. A qubit can be seen like an imaginary sphere: whereas a regular bit can be at either end of the sphere’s two poles,  a qubit can exist at any point on the sphere. A computer using qubits can thus process much more information using much less energy, enabling it to solve problems more quickly. Quantum computers can solve problems that are impossible or would take a traditional computer an impractical amount of time to solve.

Quantum technology, harnesses the strange rules that govern particles at the atomic level, is normally thought of as much too delicate to coexist with the electronics we use every day.

Challenges to Quantum Computing

Some of the top challenges to Quantum Computing are as follows

• Qubit Quality
• Error Correction
• Qubit Control
• Too Many Wires

For more information visit Challenges to Quantum Computing

Breakthrough

Scientists with the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering announced a significant breakthrough: Quantum states can be integrated and controlled in commonly used electronic devices made from silicon carbide.

“The ability to create and control high-performance quantum bits in commercial electronics was a surprise,” said lead investigator David Awschalom, the Liew Family Professor in Molecular Engineering at UChicago and a pioneer in quantum technology. “These discoveries have changed the way we think about developing quantum technologies—perhaps we can find a way to use today’s electronics to build quantum devices.”

In two papers published in Science and Science Advances, Awschalom’s group demonstrated they could electrically control quantum states embedded in silicon carbide. The breakthrough could offer a means to more easily design and build quantum electronics in contrast to using exotic materials scientists usually need to use for quantum experiments, such as superconducting metals, levitated atoms or diamonds. 

This work brings us one step closer to the realization of systems capable of storing and distributing quantum information across the world’s fiber-optic networks.

Reference

“Electrical and optical control of single spins integrated in scalable semiconductor devices.” Science, Anderson and Bourassa et al, Dec. 6, 2019.

“Electrically driven optical interferometry with spins in silicon carbide.” Science Advances, Miao et al, Nov. 22, 2019.