Researchers at the University of Chicago have a new theoretical plan to connect quantum computers over about 2,000 km. Quantum links would let distant machines share quantum information and could help form a quantum internet.
The team improved how long certain atoms keep their quantum state, moving from very short times to many milliseconds in experiments. They made this change by growing rare-earth doped crystals with molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE), a method that assembles thin layers instead of melting ingredients. Next, the group will test connectivity in the lab by linking two qubits in separate cold fridges through long cable and building a third fridge to form a local network.
Difficult words
- theoretical — Based on ideas and models, not experiments
- quantum — Relating to very small particles and their behaviour
- atom — Small part of matter, basic chemical unitatoms
- millisecond — One thousandth of a second, very short timemilliseconds
- crystal — Solid material with a regular atomic ordercrystals
- qubit — Unit of quantum information in a quantum computerqubits
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Discussion questions
- Do you think a quantum internet would change how people use the internet? Why or why not?
- What do you imagine the researchers will check when they link two qubits in the lab?
- Have you seen or used very cold equipment (like cold fridges) in a lab or school? Describe it briefly.
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