Quantum Distance Measured for the First Time in the World... A Step Closer to 'Quantum Computer'

Two-dimensional Kagome lattice with flat energy bands and energy bands

[Asia Economy Reporter Junho Hwang] Domestic researchers have proposed the world's first method to measure quantum distance in solid materials. This method involves applying a magnetic field to a solid material with constant electron energy and measuring the quantum distance based on the degree of energy level broadening. It is expected to be utilized in the future as a way to explore materials for building quantum computers.

Professor Beomjeong Yang of the Center for Correlated Matter Research at the Institute for Basic Science (Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University), Principal Researcher Junwon Lim, and Principal Researcher Kyu Kim of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute announced these research results on the 6th (local time) in the international journal Nature.

Energy Bands and Landau Levels in Typical Solids

The research team presented a new finding that when a magnetic field is applied to a solid material with a flat electron energy band, energy level broadening occurs, which can be used to measure quantum distance.

First, the researchers discovered that when a magnetic field is applied to a material where flat and curved energy bands intersect, the energy levels of electrons (Landau levels) broaden. Examples of solid materials where two bands intersect include planar cyclic graphene and Kagome lattice materials.

In these materials, energy level broadening appeared when a magnetic field was applied, depending on the quantum states at the points where the energy bands intersected. The quantum states determining the quantum distance actually influenced the physical properties. The research team also demonstrated that the maximum value of the quantum distance determines the extent of energy level broadening.

The research team stated that this study theoretically proves that quantum distance can be accurately measured by observing the energy levels of electrons in solids.

Principal Researcher Junwon Lim said, "We have become able to accurately measure the quantum distance of wavefunctions in various two-dimensional materials and control related physical properties." Professor Beomjeong Yang added, "Previous studies analyzing solids through quantum geometry were limited to curvature, but this research enables the measurement of quantum distance to clarify physical properties," and predicted, "Furthermore, it will contribute to finding new materials used in the field of quantum information."

Landau Level Variation of Flat Energy Bands under Magnetic Field

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