Sound Waves: The Future of Quantum Information Storage
Quantum information can now be stored in sound waves, according to a groundbreaking proposition by scientists. In a unique advancement reminiscent of science fiction, researchers have found a way to utter words in a room, exit, and then return to listen to what was said earlier, at least in the quantum realm. This opens the door to mechanical recording devices for quantum computers, with data being preserved in sound waves.
In the absence of an ability to remember interim results, quantum computations would be severely limited, and scaling up would face significant challenges. A team of researchers from the California Institute of Technology has proposed a completely novel approach to quantum data storage. They suggest translating electrical quantum states into sound waves and extracting them when necessary.
This innovative proposal relies on the observation that monocrystals at ultra-low temperatures can stay in a vibrational state for an extraordinarily long time. This effect is witnessed in the oscillations of quasi-particles known as acoustic phonons. These phonons oscillate at gigahertz frequencies, and their lifespan greatly exceeds all other alternative methods of mechanical data recording, claim the researchers.
To transfer an electrical quantum state to a “resonating” phonon, it is sufficient to place a charge on the oscillating crystal. By acting on the charge (charged crystal), we change the frequency of phonon oscillation and, thereby, record a bit of information. This provides an electrical connection between quantum platforms and the mechanical memory system.
The scientists emphasize that something similar was previously suggested based on piezoelectric elements. However, piezoelectrics require special materials and production conditions, whereas the system they propose uses commonplace materials.
This paradigm-shifting approach to quantum data storage, capturing quantum states in sound waves, could revolutionize the field of quantum computing and information technology as we know it.
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- I'm Martin Harris, a tech writer with extensive experience, contributing to global publications. Trained in Computer Science, I merged my technical know-how with writing, becoming a technology journalist. I've covered diverse topics like AI and consumer electronics, contributing to top tech platforms. I participate in tech events for knowledge updating. Besides writing, I enjoy reading, photography, and aim to clarify technology's complexities to readers.
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