Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2025

Gradient Echo Quantum Memory in Warm Atomic Vapor
Published on: November 11, 2013
Variational Quantum Algorithm for Non-Markovian Quantum Dynamics Using an Ensemble of Ehrenfest Trajectories
Peter L Walters1, Mohammad U Sherazi2, Fei Wang1,3
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia 22030, United States.
Abstract:
The simulation of non-Markovian quantum dynamics plays an important role in the understanding of charge and exciton dynamics in the condensed phase environment, yet such a simulation remains computationally expensive on classical computers. In this work, we develop a variational quantum algorithm that is capable of simulating non-Markovian quantum dynamics on quantum computers. The algorithm captures the non-Markovian effect by employing the Ehrenfest trajectories and Monte Carlo sampling of their thermal distribution. We test the algorithm with the spin-boson model on the quantum simulator, and the results match quantitatively with the exact ones. The algorithm naturally fits into the parallel computing platform of the NISQ devices and can be extended to anharmonic system-bath interactions and multistate systems.
Related Concept Videos
The Quantum-Mechanical Model of an Atom
Equilibrium Conditions for a Particle
To understand the concept of equilibrium, let us first consider the forces acting on an object. When different forces act on an object, they can...
Entropy Change in Reversible Processes
The statement can be further generalized to prove that entropy is a state function. Take a cyclic process between any two points on a p-V diagram.
Fermi Level Dynamics
Electron affinity in semiconductors refers to the energy gap between the minimum of its conduction band and the vacuum level and it is a critical parameter in determining how easily a semiconductor can accept additional electrons.
The work...
First Law: Particles in One-dimensional Equilibrium
Stability of Equilibrium Configuration
A stable equilibrium occurs when a system tends to return to its original position when given a small displacement, and the potential energy is at its minimum. An example of a stable equilibrium is when a cantilever beam is fixed at one end and a weight is attached to the other end. If the weight...

