Helium-3 lifts new quantum computing concept with faster tunneling rates
Helium—the lightest atom that can be laser-cooled and controlled—powers a new design for high-powered, stable quantum computers.
Helium, the lightest atom, powers a new design for quantum computers in a paper published in PRX Quantum. The University of Chicago team led by Associate Professor Jacob Covey uses high-powered lasers to capture and control individual helium atoms as optical tweezers. Helium's light weight offers faster tunneling rates, about three times faster than lithium-based designs.
Its energy structure is more resolved, allowing easier laser cooling. Helium-3, an isotope with different quantum properties than helium-4, is used in this design. The team will build the device in collaboration with Assistant Professor Zoe Yan to trap and control individual helium-3 atoms soon.
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