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A topological quantum computer is a theoretical type of quantum computer proposed by Russian-American physicist Alexei Kitaev in 1997.[1] It utilizes quasiparticles, known as anyons, in two-dimensional systems. These anyons' world lines intertwine to form braids in a three-dimensional spacetime (one temporal and two spatial dimensions). These braids act as the logic gates of the computer. The primary advantage of using quantum braids over trapped quantum particles is enhanced stability. While small, cumulative perturbations can cause quantum states to decohere and introduce errors in traditional quantum computations, such perturbations do not alter the topological properties of the braids. This stability is akin to the difference between cutting and reattaching a string to form a different braid versus a ball (representing an ordinary quantum particle in four-dimensional spacetime) colliding with a wall.
While the elements of a topological quantum computer originate in a purely mathematical realm, experiments in fractional quantum Hall systems indicate these elements may be created in the real world using semiconductors made of gallium arsenide at a temperature of near absolute zero and subjected to strong magnetic fields.
As of 2022, Microsoft is the only major technology company with a history of research and development in topological quantum computing.[2][3]
- ^ Kitaev, Alexei (9 July 1997). "Fault-tolerant quantum computation by anyons". Annals of Physics. 303 (1): 2–30. arXiv:quant-ph/9707021v1. Bibcode:2003AnPhy.303....2K. doi:10.1016/S0003-4916(02)00018-0. S2CID 11199664.
- ^ Pires, Francisco (20 March 2022). "Microsoft Chooses Exotic "Topological Qubits" as Future of Quantum Computing". Tom's Hardware. Retrieved 1 July 2024.
- ^ Gibney, Elizabeth (21 October 2016). "Inside Microsoft's quest for a topological quantum computer". Nature. Retrieved 1 July 2024.