One of the most crucial applications of quantum simulation is the exploration of molecular vibronic spectra, which plays a significant role in understanding molecular properties in molecular design and analysis. Despite the importance of this field, traditional super-computers face significant challenges in efficiently solving this computationally difficult problem. Quantum computers and algorithms have emerged as potential solutions, but they are currently limited to simple molecule structures due to issues with accuracy and noise.
Researchers at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have made a groundbreaking achievement by developing a quantum microprocessor chip capable of simulating the molecular spectroscopy of large-structured and complex molecules. This world-first innovation opens up new possibilities for accurately capturing quantum effects through sophisticated simulations that consider quantum superposition and entanglement. Published in Nature Communications, the research paper titled “Large-scale photonic network with squeezed vacuum states for molecular vibronic spectroscopy” showcases the potential of this cutting-edge technology.
The research team, led by Professor Liu Ai-Qun, has developed a 16-qubit quantum microprocessor chip that is not only fabricated and integrated into a single chip but also includes sophisticated hardware integration and software development. This complete quantum computer system provides a solid foundation for tackling complex quantum chemistry problems and achieving quantum speed-ups in relevant applications. Dr. Zhu Hui Hui, the main project driver, emphasized the potential of their approach in revolutionizing practical molecular simulations beyond classical limits.
Quantum technologies, particularly quantum microprocessor chips, are revolutionizing scientific fields such as material science, chemistry, and condensed matter physics. The integrated quantum microprocessor chip developed by the research team opens up new possibilities for practical applications, including molecular docking problems and quantum machine learning techniques like graph classification. Professor Liu emphasized the real-world impact of their research and expressed their goal of scaling up the microprocessor to tackle even more intricate applications for societal and industrial benefits.
The successful simulation of molecular vibronic spectra using a quantum computing microprocessor marks a significant advancement in quantum technology and its potential applications. This breakthrough not only sheds light on the immense possibilities offered by quantum simulation but also sets the stage for further innovation in solving complex tasks with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The research team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of quantum engineering paves the way for a future where quantum simulation transforms our understanding of complex systems.