A time-varying magnetic field can induce states of matter that do not exist under normal conditions—this is what physicists at California Polytechnic State University have discovered. This discovery could bring us closer to the development of more stable quantum computers.
Conceptual visualization. Manipulating magnetic fields over time could unlock entirely new forms of matter and pave the way for a more stable future for quantum technologies. Source: AI/ScienceDaily.com
What the researchers did
Ian Powell, a lecturer in the Department of Physics at Cal Poly (California Polytechnic State University), together with student Louis Buchalter, investigated how matter behaves at the atomic and electronic levels when exposed to a magnetic field that varies in a specific rhythm. The authors published their findings in the journal Physical Review B.
It turns out that matter exposed to a rhythmically varying magnetic field acquires quantum properties that do not exist in matter subjected to a stable, constant field. For now, this is theoretical work—the next step is to test it experimentally on actual installations.
Why is this important for quantum technologies?
One of the main challenges in quantum computing is “noise”: external disturbances and defects that cause the system to make errors. A properly selected rhythm of magnetic field variation makes it possible to create quantum systems that are more resistant to such disturbances. According to Powell, the key idea is that useful quantum properties depend not only on what the material is made of, but also on how it is controlled over time.
In addition to new quantum states, the study revealed a mathematical organizing principle typically found in higher-dimensional systems. This means that relatively simple setups—such as experiments with ultracold atoms—can serve as a tool for studying more complex aspects of quantum physics. The team also constructed a topological phase diagram that describes the conditions under which each of the new states arises.
“The most direct practical value of our research lies in quantum computing and quantum modeling, rather than in specific application sectors at this stage. To move closer to practical implementation, we need to experimentally validate these ideas and adapt them to real quantum devices,” notes Powell.
According to California Polytechnic State University / ScienceDaily