Mimicking Quantum Chemistry: Analogue quantum simulation of pseudomolecules

Theorists develop a simplified experimental concept that could enable the first quantum simulations of chemistry.

The simulation of quantum chemical processes promises a lot of progress, such as the discovery of new chains of reactions, new synthetic materials or pharmaceuticals. But it is an enormous task, which known methods have failed to date. For classical supercomputers, the molecules are too complex, and for quantum simulations with cold atoms, the technological hurdles are still too high. In a new paper, we have now developed a simplified method that puts such simulations within reach – but at a price: The simulated models are only an approximation to the chemical reality and have different properties. Therefore, they don’t allow precise predictions but offer a new and instructive approach to quantum chemistry and to the experimental challenges of quantum simulations of this kind.

 

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