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Large-scale analogue quantum simulation using atom dot arrays
M B Donnelly1,2, Y Chung3, R Garreis3
1Silicon Quantum Computing Pty. Ltd., UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. matthew.donnelly@sqc.com.au.
Nature
|February 4, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a novel quantum simulator using 15,000 atom-based quantum dots. This system precisely simulates strongly interacting, low-temperature physics, advancing quantum materials research.
Area of Science:
- Quantum simulation
- Condensed matter physics
- Quantum computing
Background:
- Analogue quantum systems are crucial for simulating complex quantum phenomena.
- Existing platforms struggle with large-scale, strongly interacting fermionic systems at low temperatures.
- Electronic correlations in materials are key but challenging to simulate accurately.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a new, large-scale analogue quantum simulator.
- To enable the simulation of strongly interacting, low-temperature physics.
- To overcome limitations of current quantum simulation platforms.
Main Methods:
- Utilized large-scale 2D arrays of precision-engineered atom-based quantum dots (15,000 sites).
- Engineered independent and precise control over on-site interaction (U) and tunneling (t).
- Performed magneto-transport measurements to probe electronic properties.
Main Results:
- Observed a metal-insulator transition on a 2D square lattice.
- Demonstrated precise control over interaction and tunneling parameters.
- Indicated an insulating state driven by Mott-Hubbard/Anderson physics with correlated electron signatures.
Conclusions:
- The new platform offers a unique capability for simulating quantum materials on arbitrary 2D lattices.
- Enables exploration of quantum magnetism, interacting topological quantum matter, and unconventional superconductivity.
- Advances the pursuit of practical quantum advantage through analogue quantum simulation.
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