A complex time crystal has been created in a quantum computer at the Donostia International Physics Center in Spain. This discovery is important because it shows how quantum computers can help in scientific research.
Normal crystals have atoms that repeat in space, while time crystals repeat in time. This means they can cycle through the same patterns endlessly, unless affected by outside forces. For a long time, scientists were unsure about the effects of time crystals on physics. However, over the past ten years, researchers have made several types in labs. Now, Nicolás Lorente and his team have created an even more complex version using an IBM quantum computer.
Most earlier studies looked at one-dimensional time crystals. This team aimed to build a two-dimensional version using 144 qubits, which are basic units of quantum information. They arranged these qubits in a honeycomb pattern. Changing how these qubits interact led to the creation of the time crystal.
This new complexity helps map out the qubit system’s features, which is essential for understanding materials. Jamie Garcia from IBM believes this work could be a step towards using quantum computers to design new materials. Researchers face challenges with errors in existing quantum computers, but combining different methods could improve our understanding of quantum systems in the future.
Vocabulary List:
- Crystal /ˈkrɪs.təl/ (noun): A solid material whose atoms are arranged in a highly ordered repeating pattern.
- Quantum /ˈkwɒn.təm/ (adjective): Relating to the smallest possible discrete unit of any physical property.
- Complex /ˈkɒmplɛks/ (adjective): Consisting of many different and connected parts.
- Discovery /dɪsˈkʌv.ər.i/ (noun): The act of finding or learning something for the first time.
- Researchers /rɪˈsɜː.tʃərz/ (noun): People who conduct systematic investigations to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
- Features /ˈfiː.tʃərz/ (noun): Distinctive attributes or aspects of something.
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