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Published on: June 28, 2018
Manipulating topological edge spins in a one-dimensional optical lattice
Xiong-Jun Liu1, Zheng-Xin Liu2, Meng Cheng3
1Joint Quantum Institute, Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA and Condensed Matter Theory Center, Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA and Department of Physics, Institute for Advanced Study, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong.
We demonstrate manipulating topological edge spins in optical lattices, creating a topological spin qubit. This breakthrough enables single spin control for quantum computation applications.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Condensed matter physics
- Atomic physics
Background:
- Symmetry Protected Topological (SPT) phases offer unique quantum properties.
- Topological edge states exhibit robust characteristics, crucial for quantum information.
- Controlling spin states in optical lattices is key for quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To observe and manipulate topological edge spins in a 1D optical lattice.
- To realize a topological spin qubit (TSQ) using these edge spins.
- To demonstrate a novel scheme for single spin control within the lattice.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing currently available experimental platforms for optical lattices.
- Coupling atomic spin states to a laser-induced periodic Zeeman field.
- Driving the system into a chiral unitary (AIII) SPT phase classified by a Z invariant (Z(4) with interactions).
Main Results:
- Achieved a symmetry protected topological (SPT) phase in the optical lattice.
- Identified spin-polarized zero edge modes forming a topological spin qubit (TSQ).
- Demonstrated a novel scheme for manipulating these zero modes and achieving single spin control.
Conclusions:
- The developed method allows for the observation and manipulation of topological edge spins.
- The topological spin qubit (TSQ) shows potential for quantum computation.
- Single spin control in optical lattices is achievable through this novel manipulation scheme.
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