Research on quantum computing and information is currently in high demand, as are articles published in Physics Today. (For those unfamiliar with the subject, “What's under the hood of a quantum computer?” published online March 5, 2021 by Physics Today is an excellent place to start). Which type of qubits or combinations of qubit types are best qualified for future technological and research needs is one of the questions explored by researchers in this field. Superconducting or trapped ion qubits have been mostly used in commercial quantum computers up to this point (see Physics Today, November 2020, page 22).
On page 28 of the March issue, Michael Wasielewski introduces molecules with entangled electron spins as a new qubit competitor. A photoexcited electron can move from a source molecule to an acceptor molecule via a bridge molecule in a system of three interconnected molecules. The electron leaves behind an electron hole, and the hole and electron combine to produce a spin pair that can exist in different singlet and triplet spin states. Quantum gate operations of molecular spin pairs can be extended to three- and four-spin systems.
The cover art alludes to molecules, using a picture of a traditional ball-and-stick pattern that veteran graphic designer Freddie Pagani modified to suggest overlapping states. After saturating the hues, he first separated the red, green and blue channels. He then stacked the channels in various sizes and orientations, giving them a rich, three-dimensional look. To mimic this layering, Pagani used the Vektra font for the cover line.
Source: Physics Today
Günceleme: 03/03/2023 17:30