Quantum computers could potentially revolutionize technology by solving complex problems. However, they often experience instability due to “noise” from their environments, which can cause errors.
A new study has addressed this bottleneck by proving the existence of a nuclear-spin dark state. This state has been suspected to exist for a long time but lacked the evidence—until now.
Researchers at the University of Rochester, led by Associate Professor John Nichol, have made a significant breakthrough in quantum computing. They have confirmed the existence of a nuclear-spin dark state, which can help stabilize quantum systems by reducing “noise” from the environment.
The study, published in Nature Physics, used quantum dots—tiny semiconductor particles that trap single electrons and store information using their spin, to create a nuclear-spin dark state.
In a nuclear-spin dark state, the tiny magnetic properties—known as spins—of atomic nuclei line up and synchronize in a way that stops them from disturbing an electron’s spin. This helps to keep the electron spin stable.
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To create the nuclear-spin dark state, the team used dynamic nuclear polarization to align the nuclear spins. This led to the formation of the dark state. The team then directly measured its effects. They found that the dark state significantly reduced interactions between the spins of electrons and nuclei, helping to stabilize the quantum system.
This discovery could lead to advanced quantum systems, quantum sensing, and memory technologies. Nuclear-spin dark states are stable in nature. Hence, they are perfect for long-term information storage and precise measurements in areas like medical imaging and navigation.
Nichol emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, “By reducing the noise, this breakthrough will allow quantum devices to store information longer and perform calculations with great accuracy.”
The fact is- this discovery was made in silicon, which is widely used in modern technology. It hints at future possibilities for using nuclear-spin dark states in quantum devices.
Journal Reference:
- Cai, X., Walelign, H.Y. & Nichol, J.M. The formation of a nuclear-spin dark state in silicon. Nat. Phys. (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-024-02773-w
Source: Tech Explorist
