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Physics

Scientists Create Longer-Lasting Quantum Bits in Germanium

Researchers have successfully created a highly coherent singlet-triplet qubit in germanium that can operate at both low magnetic fields and control speeds.

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1 min read

In the intricate dance of quantum mechanics, scientists have long sought to balance coherence and control in semiconductor qubits. One approach, known as singlet-triplet (ST) qubits, holds promise for maintaining high gate speeds even at low magnetic fields. However, this method also introduces a significant charge component that can compromise the qubit's stability.

Researchers Tsoukalas K et al. have made a breakthrough in this field by demonstrating a highly coherent ST hole spin qubit in germanium. By modulating the exchange interaction J and applying a resonant drive, they achieve remarkable results: an average gate fidelity of 99.68% and a coherence time of T2*=1.9μs.

This discovery is significant because it shows that coherence times can be extended while preserving high-fidelity control in germanium-based ST qubits. This paves the way for more efficient operations in semiconductor-based quantum processors, which could potentially lead to breakthroughs in fields like computing and cryptography.

The people behind the work

  • Tsoukalas K et al.

    Author

    Published in Nature communications

Source: Nature communications

Sources & Verification

Every statement in this story is drawn from the facts below. Each is linked to a primary or reputable source — follow any citation to check it for yourself.

  1. In semiconductor hole spin qubits, low magnetic field (B) operation extends the coherence time ( T2* ) but proportionally reduces the gate speed. Nature communications
  2. In contrast, singlet-triplet (ST) qubits are primarily controlled by the exchange interaction ( J) and can thus maintain high gate speeds even at low B. Nature communications
  3. However, a large J introduces a significant charge component to the qubit, rendering ST qubits more vulnerable to charge noise when driven. Nature communications
  4. Here, we demonstrate a highly coherent ST hole spin qubit in germanium, operating at both low B and low J. Nature communications
  5. By modulating J, we achieve resonant driving of the ST qubit, obtaining an average gate fidelity of 99.68% and a coherence time of T2*=1.9μs . Nature communications
  6. Moreover, by applying the resonant drive continuously, we realize a dressed ST qubit with a tenfold increase in coherence time ( T2ρ*=20.3μs ). Nature communications
  7. Frequency modulation of the driving signal enables universal control, with an average gate fidelity of 99.63%. Nature communications
  8. Our results demonstrate the potential for extending coherence times while preserving high-fidelity control of germanium-based ST qubits, paving the way for more efficient operations in semiconductor-based quantum processors. Nature communications

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