Google’s Sycamore quantum chip breaks classical computers performing random circuit sampling
Phase transition in linear cross-entropy. Credit: Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07998-6
A team of engineers, physicists, and quantum experts at Google Research found that by reducing noise to a certain level, the company’s Sycamore quantum chip can outperform classical computers that perform random circuit sampling (RCS). discovered.
In their study published in the journal Nature, the group fine-tuned the processor’s operating conditions to reduce the amount of noise interference to a level that could exceed classical computers running RCS.
Computer scientists have been trying to build truly useful quantum computers for decades, but classical supercomputers are hundreds, thousands, or even millions of years away from being perfected. We have not yet been able to build a quantum computer that delivers on its original promise to run such algorithms. Still, we see continued progress as new technologies are introduced.
Researchers have developed algorithms that can run on traditional supercomputers or quantum computers as a way to test their capabilities against each other. One such algorithm is RCS, which basically does nothing other than generate a set of random numbers.
One of the biggest hurdles facing researchers is the error caused by environmental noise. Therefore, much research has been done on how to correct errors or, optimally, prevent errors from occurring in the first place. Such studies have led to findings suggesting that background noise in the environment can cause errors. Such noise is natural or environmental in nature. It can be brought about by temperature changes, magnetic fields, and even cosmic radiation.
In this new study, Google researchers worked to reduce background noise. Part of that involved placing the chip in a chamber at near absolute zero temperatures while it was operating. They found that even a small reduction in noise, such as from an error-free rate of 99.4% to 99.7%, resulted in a dramatic change in functionality.
We were also able to reduce the chip’s error rate sufficiently to be able to achieve a “quantum advantage” when running RCS. This suggests that scientists are getting closer and closer to the dream of a truly useful quantum computer.
Further information: A. Morvan et al., Phase transitions in random circuit sampling, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07998-6
© 2024 Science X Network
Citation: Google’s Sycamore quantum chip outperforms classical computers performing random circuit sampling (October 12, 2024) https://phys.org/news/2024-10-google-sycamore-quantum-chip-classical Retrieved October 12, 2024 from .html
This document is subject to copyright. No part may be reproduced without written permission, except in fair dealing for personal study or research purposes. Content is provided for informational purposes only.
