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Updated: Feb 4, 2026

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Published on: November 11, 2013
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Topological quantum computation based on chiral Majorana fermions.
Biao Lian1,2, Xiao-Qi Sun2,3, Abolhassan Vaezi2,3
1Princeton Center for Theoretical Science, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544-0001.
Summary
Chiral Majorana fermions, observed in hybrid topological materials, can perform quantum computations. Their propagation mimics Majorana zero mode braiding, enabling quantum gates like Hadamard and phase gates.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Quantum Computing
- Topological Matter
Background:
- Chiral Majorana fermions are massless, self-conjugate fermions found as edge states in 2D topological matter.
- They have been experimentally observed in hybrid devices combining quantum anomalous Hall insulators and superconductors.
- Majorana zero modes, a related concept, are key to topological quantum computation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate that chiral Majorana fermions can be utilized for quantum computation.
- To propose a platform for performing quantum computations using these fermions.
- To show the equivalence between chiral Majorana fermion propagation and Majorana zero mode braiding.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a Corbino ring junction in a hybrid device.
- Employing quantum coherent chiral Majorana fermions.
- Analyzing junction conductance for qubit state readout.
Main Results:
- The propagation of chiral Majorana fermions achieves the same unitary transformation as Majorana zero mode braiding.
- A platform for quantum computation with chiral Majorana fermions is proposed.
- The Corbino ring junction successfully implements the Hadamard and phase gates.
- Junction conductance provides a natural readout mechanism for the qubit state.
Conclusions:
- Chiral Majorana fermions offer a viable route for implementing quantum gates and performing quantum computations.
- The proposed platform leverages the unique properties of these fermions for scalable quantum information processing.
- This work bridges the gap between fundamental physics of topological matter and practical quantum computing applications.
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