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Probing many-body dynamics on a 51-atom quantum simulator (1707.04344v2)

Published 13 Jul 2017 in quant-ph, cond-mat.quant-gas, and physics.atom-ph

Abstract: Controllable, coherent many-body systems can provide insights into the fundamental properties of quantum matter, enable the realization of new quantum phases and could ultimately lead to computational systems that outperform existing computers based on classical approaches. Here we demonstrate a method for creating controlled many-body quantum matter that combines deterministically prepared, reconfigurable arrays of individually trapped cold atoms with strong, coherent interactions enabled by excitation to Rydberg states. We realize a programmable Ising-type quantum spin model with tunable interactions and system sizes of up to 51 qubits. Within this model, we observe phase transitions into spatially ordered states that break various discrete symmetries, verify the high-fidelity preparation of these states and investigate the dynamics across the phase transition in large arrays of atoms. In particular, we observe robust manybody dynamics corresponding to persistent oscillations of the order after a rapid quantum quench that results from a sudden transition across the phase boundary. Our method provides a way of exploring many-body phenomena on a programmable quantum simulator and could enable realizations of new quantum algorithms.

Citations (2,017)

Summary

Analysis of "Probing many-body dynamics on a 51-atom quantum simulator"

The paper "Probing many-body dynamics on a 51-atom quantum simulator" presents a significant advancement in the exploration of quantum many-body systems using highly-controlled experimental setups. This research utilizes a 51-atom quantum simulator designed using neutral atoms excited to Rydberg states to demonstrate a programmable quantum Ising model with tunable interactions. The primary focus of this work is on understanding the phase transitions and dynamics in large arrays of atoms, which are crucial for both quantum simulation and computation.

Methodology and Experimental Setup

The researchers employ a well-structured methodology to create a controlled many-body quantum system. They use optical tweezers to trap individual 87Rb atoms and arrange them in defect-free arrays. Coherent interactions between the atoms are achieved by exciting them to Rydberg states through a two-photon excitation process. By adjusting the parameters of the excitation, the team realizes a programmable Ising-type quantum spin model with up to 51 qubits, allowing them to explore various phases and dynamics of the system.

One of the significant achievements of this paper is the demonstration of high-fidelity preparation of spatially ordered states, which are crucial for many-body physics. The paper describes the procedure for loading atoms into a tweezer array, arranging them into desired configurations, and manipulating their quantum states using time-dependent evolutionary dynamics under controlled parameters.

Strong Numerical Results and Phase Transitions

The experiment clearly shows phase transitions to spatially ordered states with distinct symmetries. The researchers observe robust many-body dynamics, such as persistent oscillations of the order parameter following a rapid quench across the phase boundary in large arrays of atoms. A particularly noteworthy outcome is the persistent oscillation phenomena, which differ from classical thermal equilibrium predictions, suggesting the possible existence of novel non-equilibrium phases or dynamics.

The paper includes thorough benchmarking of the quantum simulator's performance by comparing measured results of the adiabatic sweep across the phase transition with theoretical predictions, achieving excellent agreement. The fidelity of preparing many-body ground states up to 51 atoms is reported, with probabilities that are competitive with those achieved in smaller systems from previous studies.

Implications and Future Directions

This work demonstrates the potential of Rydberg atom arrays as a versatile tool for quantum simulations. It opens several avenues for future research, both in terms of enhancing coherence and control and exploring more complex quantum phenomena. Potential improvements in the quantum simulator could include individual qubit control and addressing larger two-dimensional configurations, enhancing the ability to investigate more sophisticated quantum algorithms and phenomena such as topological states and non-equilibrium quantum phases.

The implications of this research span both theoretical and practical domains. Theoretically, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of quantum many-body dynamics and phase transitions, particularly in systems far from equilibrium. Practically, the results could advance quantum computing and information processing technologies by providing a platform for developing and testing new quantum algorithms that potentially surpass classical computational capabilities.

In summary, the meticulous presentation of this research underscores the promise of Rydberg-state quantum simulators in exploring the vast landscape of quantum many-body physics and advancing quantum technology.