Quantum Simulations with Complex Geometries and Synthetic Gauge Fields in a Trapped Ion Chain
Tom Manovitz, Yotam Shapira, Nitzan Akerman, Ady Stern, Roee Ozeri · PRX Quantum · 2020
In recent years, arrays of atomic ions in a linear radio-frequency trap have proven to be a particularly successful platform for quantum simulation.However, a wide range of quantum models and phenomena have, so far, remained beyond the reach of such simulators.In this work we introduce a technique that can substantially extend this reach using an external field gradient along the ion chain and a global, uniform driving field.The technique can be used to generate both static and time-varying synthetic gauge fields in a linear chain of trapped ions, and enables continuous simulation of a variety of coupling geometries and topologies, including periodic boundary conditions and high-dimensional Hamiltonians.We describe the technique, derive the corresponding effective Hamiltonian, propose a number of variations, and discuss the possibility of scaling to quantum-advantage-sized simulators.Additionally, we suggest several possible implementations and briefly examine two: the Aharonov-Bohm ring and the frustrated triangular ladder.