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At least 973 records · Page 54

Quantum Computation of Electronic Transitions Using a Variational Quantum Eigensolver

We develop an extension of the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) algorithm – multistate, contracted VQE (MC-VQE) – that allows for the efficient computation of the transition energies between the ground state and several low-lying excited states of a molecule, as well as the oscillator strengths associated with these transitions. Here, we numerically simulate MC-VQE by computing the absorption spectrum of an ab initio exciton model of an 18-chromophore light-harvesting complex from purple photosynthetic bacteria

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Site-Specific Structure at Multiple Length Scales in Kagome Quantum Spin Liquid Candidates

Realizing a quantum spin liquid (QSL) ground state in a real material is a leading issue in condensed matter physics research. In this pursuit, it is crucial to fully characterize the structure and influence of defects, as these can significantly affect the fragile QSL physics. In this work, we perform a variety of cutting-edge synchrotron x-ray scattering and spectroscopy techniques, and we advance new methodologies for site-specific diffraction and L-edge Zn absorption spectroscopy. The experimental results along with our first-principles calculations address outstanding questions about the local and long-range structures of the two leading kagome QSL candidates, Zn-substituted barlowite Cu 3 Zn x Cu 1-x (OH) 6 FBr and herbertsmithite Cu 3 Zn(OH) 6 Cl 2 . On all length scales probed, there is no evidence that Zn substitutes onto the kagome layers, thereby preserving the QSL physics of the kagome lattice. Our calculations show that antisite disorder is not energetically favorable and is even less favorable in Zn-barlowite compared to herbertsmithite. Site-specific x-ray diffraction measurements of Zn-barlowite reveal that Cu 2+ and Zn 2+ selectively occupy distinct interlayer sites, in contrast to herbertsmithite. Using the first measured Zn L-edge inelastic x-ray absorption spectra combined with calculations, we discover a systematic correlation between the loss of inversion symmetry from pseudo-octahedral (herbertsmithite) to trigonal prismatic coordination (Zn-barlowite) with the emergence of a new peak. Overall, our measurements suggest that Zn-barlowite has structural advantages over herbertsmithite that make its magnetic properties closer to an ideal QSL candidate: its kagome layers are highly resistant to nonmagnetic defects while the interlayers can accommodate a higher amount of Zn substitution.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Implementation of quantum key distribution and quantum clock synchronization via time bin encoding

Quantum key distribution allows for a provably secure transmission of cryptographic keys over an optical channel. Encoded polarization states or time-bin degree of freedom have been used for successful demonstrations. However, photon losses in long fibers, slow single photon detectors, and detector dark counts significantly limit the overall bit rate. Improving key throughput and reducing the overhead of key reconciliation remain as major challenges. Methods which utilize multiple time bins allow for multiple key bits to be encoded in a single photon, thus increasing the fidelity of transmitted keys and decreasing the overhead of key reconciliation in real-world conditions. Previous implementations of these methods required that Alice and Bob share a time reference by sharing a dedicated classical channel used for synchronization. This work presents a technique that allows two parties to exchange time-bin encoded photons without the need for synchronized time references. Our technique uses a framing protocol which allows Alice to encode a time reference along with a key which is determined by Alice before transmission. Security can be achieved by monitoring the visibility of a pair of Franson interferometers, using decoy pulses and measuring the round trip time between Alice and Bob. The bit rate of this technique is limited only by the recovery time of the detector and the speed of the modulation electronics. We experimentally demonstrate a raw bit rate of 5Mb/s over an optical channel with 55dB of loss, which is competitive with current research. We also demonstrate absolute timing synchronization with an accuracy of 20ps.

encryption↗

Quantum corrections to the conductivity and anomalous Hall effect in InGaAs quantum wells with a spatially separated Mn impurity

Magnetotransport in heterostructures with spatial separation of the Mn magnetic impurity and an InGaAs quantum well is studied. An analysis of the observed effect of weak localization using the Hikami–Larkin–Nagaoki formula leads to an anomalously small value (0.4) of the prefactor. Obtained data indicate that inelastic e–e scattering can be the dominant dephasing mechanism in the structures under study. Analysis of the conductivity and magnetoresistance indicates the dominant role of spin-dependent scattering at fluctuations in the magnetic subsystem, which is consistent with an increase in the amplitude of the negative magnetoresistance and an increase in the Drude conductivity as a result of cooling. The nature of the anomalous Hall effect in the studied structures is investigated; in particular, indications are obtained that there is the presence of a topological contribution at low temperatures.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Using Quantum Sensors to Probe the Quasiparticle Excess in Quantum Circuits due to Ionizing Radiation

This project quantified natural ionizing radiation as a source of excess quasiparticles in superconducting quantum circuits. Thermal Kinetic Inductance Detectors (TKIDs) were developed and deployed to measure event‑by‑event energy deposition in silicon substrates at millikelvin temperatures. Measurements and radiation transport simulations showed strong agreement across keV–MeV energies, providing validated background models and design guidance to mitigate radiation‑induced decoherence in superconducting qubits and detectors.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

Remainder terms for some quantum entropy inequalities

We consider three von Neumann entropy inequalities: subadditivity; Pinsker's inequality for relative entropy; and the monotonicity of relative entropy. For these we state conditions for equality, and we prove some new error bounds away from equality, including an improved version of Pinsker's inequality.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Universal Design Principles for Cascade Heterojunction Solar Cells with High Fill Factors and Internal Quantum Efficiencies Approaching 100%

Cascade heterojunction (CHJ) organic solar cells have recently emerged as an alternative to conventional bulk heterojunctions and series-connected tandems due to their significant promise for high internal quantum efficiency (IQE) and broad spectral coverage. However, CHJ devices thus far have also exhibited poor fill factor (FF), resulting in minimal enhancements (or even decreases) in power conversion efficiency (PCE) when compared with single heterojunction (SHJ) cells. In this study, the major variables controlling the CHJ maximum power point and FF are determined using a combinatorial approach. By matching the maximum power point voltage (VMPP) of the constituent parallel-connected heterojunctions (subjunctions) and minimizing the injection barriers intrinsic to CHJs, high FF and PCE can be achieved. Optimized CHJ devices are demonstrated with >99% IQE in the interlayer and a 46% increase in PCE compared to a SHJ reference (4.1% versus 2.8%). Devices with a transparent exciton dissociation layer (EDL)/interlayer/acceptor structure are employed, such that each CHJ has absorption efficiency identical to its interlayer/acceptor SHJ counterpart. Using these results, a clear map of performance as a function of material parameters is developed, providing straightforward, universal design rules to guide future engineering of molecules and layer architectures for CHJ organic photovoltaic devices.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗