Quantum computer programmer writing code for quantum algorithms (© Microgen – stock.adobe.com)
QUEBEC CITY, Quebec — Scientists have developed a new method that could revolutionize the way we exchange and transmit information securely. The new technology uses particles in a new way to perform complex calculations and control quantum information.
At its core, the research takes advantage of the strange world of quantum mechanics, where particles can exist in multiple states at the same time and attract each other over long distances. While this may sound like science fiction, it is the foundation of emerging technologies that promise to revolutionize computing, communications, and data security.
A research team, led by scientists from Canada and Germany, has developed a method of using ordinary fiber-optic cables – the same type used in high-speed Internet – to create what they call a “synthetic temporal photonic lattice.” In simple terms, they have found a way to use the light that passes through the fiber-optic cable to create a playground for information.
Think of a game of hopscotch, but instead of a child jumping through circles on the floor, you have tiny particles of light (photons) “jumping” through different times as they travel through fiber-optic loops. By observing how these particles divide and reassemble in loops, scientists can perform complex tasks.
One of the new features in this research is how they store information. Instead of using quantum bits (qubits), which are notoriously difficult to manipulate, they use the arrival times of particles to represent different quantum states. This method, called time-bin encoding, is very robust against interference and is well suited to modern communication technology.
“Our group has discovered how to use photonic systems to gain information, based on the number of high-energy photons that reside in their temporal regions,” says co-author Professor Roberto Morandotti of Quebec’s Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), m ‘words. “The system does not require a lot of resources, because it has fiber equipment, which is compatible with conventional telecoms.”
The researchers demonstrated the ability of their system to create and control entangled photons – particles that are linked in such a way that the nature of one affects the other at the same time, no matter how far apart. They showed that they can create and control two-dimensional (like a binary bit quantum) and four-dimensional quantum, opening up possibilities for more complex applications.
“Our system is based on fiber-optic equipment that is used in the field of telecommunication and can be combined with current and future technology equipment,” says co-author of the study Dr. Stefania Sciara, also from INRS.
This success would lead to progress in several areas:
- Quantum Computing: Enabling efficient solutions for complex problems beyond the reach of today’s supercomputers.
- Secure Connection: Developing unbreakable encryption methods for sending confidential information.
- Correct Measurements: Improving our ability to measure the smallest changes in mechanical systems used in fields such as photography and navigation.
Although there are challenges to be overcome, such as reducing signal loss and increasing the speed of operation, this research represents an important step towards making quantum technologies more practical and accessible. By using devices that are compatible with existing devices, it brings us closer to a future where quantum networks can be as common as today’s Internet.
“This discovery is proof that it is possible to realize quantum systems using tools, methods, and potential devices. It also shows that it is possible to use quantum networks to send your information securely,” added Sciara.
The study was published in a journal Nature Photonics.
Paper Summary
The way
The researchers created a setup with two fiber optic loops of different lengths connected by a dynamic optical coupler. The laser pulse is fed into a long loop and split into two pulses that rotate through the two loops. As the pulses travel through the loop, they arrive at the coupler at different times, creating multiple time frames that form a single synthetic lattice.
The researchers used this periodic lattice to create and organize quantum states in the form of bins composed of photon pairs. They did this by sending pulses sequentially through non-linear crystal waveguides to produce entangled photons. The trapped photons were fed back into a fiber loop system, where the researchers could control their evolution and measure the quantum interference.
The key to this process is the dynamic control of the connection between the two loops of yarn. By rapidly changing the coupling ratio, the researchers were able to improve quantum interference processes and increase detection efficiency compared to earlier coupling designs.
Big results
The researchers demonstrated their ability to design and control two-dimensional (qubit) and four-dimensional (qudit) time-bin synchrotrons using this system. For qubit states, they were able to achieve quantum perturbations of over 96% without the need for post-selection. For the highest qudit countries, it was seen more than 89%.
Visual measurements of the quantum perturbation of these researchers demonstrate the researchers’ precise control over the evolution of the quantum state within the artificial time lattice. This control is important for applications in quantum computing, communications, and metrology.
Educational Barriers
The main limitation of this method is the loss of light that is collected as the photons circulate through the fiber loops. After several iterations, the losses are large, limiting the number of times that can be generated and changed. To improve the performance of the component, such as optical switches and couplers, it will be necessary to make the system more advanced.
Discussions & References
This work shows how the production measurements made during the period can help to increase the quantity information. The use of a fixed fiber optic platform provides a more stable and stable process compared to free space or chip manufacturing methods.
The researchers are exploring several possible approaches to this technology, including quantum field simulation, boson sampling, and the analysis of material parameters. The ability to create highly closed states and control their evolution is an important part of realizing these advanced protocols.
Overall, this study shows how the new use of temporal degrees of freedom can expand the toolbox for controlling quantum systems, affecting a wide variety of quantum technologies.
Funds & Disclosures
The research was supported by funding from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, the Italian Ministry of University and Research, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, among other sources. The authors declare no conflicting interests.
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