Researchers at NIST have developed a new method for quantum simulation and sensing using trapped ions. They created two-dimensional arrays of up to 300 ions confined in a Penning trap, allowing them to simulate quantum many-body systems and sense electric fields with unprecedented sensitivity.
The key technical achievement is the implementation of a quantum simulation platform based on the Dicke model, which describes the interaction between a large number of two-level systems (ions) and a common mode of motion. This allows them to study complex quantum phenomena that are difficult to simulate with classical computers.
The team has demonstrated the ability to measure weak electric fields with sensitivity improved by the square root of the number of ions, enabling searches for ultralight dark matter candidates. They have also shown that the system can generate and measure entanglement in systems with more than 200 ions.
The work builds on previous research by the same group, which has developed techniques for cooling and controlling large ion crystals. The next steps include increasing the complexity of the simulated systems and exploring three-dimensional crystals with up to 10,000 ions.
The research has potential applications in quantum computing, quantum simulation, and precision measurement, with the ability to simulate complex quantum systems and sense weak fields that are difficult to detect with conventional methods.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/programs-projects/quantum-simulation-and-sensing-trapped-ions
Keywords: entanglement, quantum simulation, trapped ions, electric fields, motional excitations
