Quantum computer models chemical reactions

A version of Google's Sycamore quantum chip, scaled down to 12 qubits, simulated a chemical reaction, setting a record for complexity, but it's not something the researchers say is of paramount importance. The experts, who published the results of their research in the journal Science, emphasize that the application of the system in the field of chemistry demonstrates the versatility of the system and the ability to program a quantum machine to perform tasks in any field.

The team first modeled a simplified version of the energy state of the molecule, consisting of 12 Sycamore qubits, representing one electron of one atom. Next, the simulation of the chemical reaction in the molecule and nitrogen was carried out, including changes in the electronic structure of this molecule that occur when the position of the atoms changes.

In 2017, IBM performed chemical simulations using the quantum six-qubit system. Scientists compare this to the level of complexity that scientists in their 12s could calculate by hand. By doubling that number to 80 qubits, Google calculates a system that could be computed on a XNUMXs computer. Doubling computing power will allow us to reach the XNUMXth, and in the future, the current capabilities of computers. Only the superiority of modern computer technology will be considered a breakthrough not only in chemical modeling.

Source: www.scientificamerican.com