Ergodic-Localized Junctions in a Periodically Driven Spin Chain

Area of Science:

• Quantum Simulation
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Superconducting Qubits

Background:

• Ergodic and localized states describe different system behaviors.
• Disorder can induce localization in quantum systems.
• Understanding junctions between these states is crucial for novel quantum phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally simulate an ergodic-localized junction.
• To investigate the proximity effect in driven-disordered quantum systems.
• To explore the penetration of excitations into disordered regions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 12-coupled superconducting qubit processor.
• Division of the processor into driven (ergodic) and disordered (localized) domains.
• Preparation of microwave excitations and probing of dynamics.
• Ensemble averaging over 50 disorder realizations.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of an analog simulation of an ergodic-localized junction.
• Observation of a proximity effect where small disorder destroys localization.
• Experimental evidence of excitation penetration into the disordered domain.
• Clear visualization of the proximity effect through ensemble averaging.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully simulates driven-disordered systems using superconducting qubits.
• Proximity effects play a significant role at the junction of ergodic and localized states.
• This work opens new possibilities for quantum simulators in condensed matter and material science.