Physical challenges of quantum computation

This is a study of several physical challenges for building a quantum computer, a hypothetical device which is capable of accomplishing tasks unachievable by the classical model of computation. In chapter 1, we will give an overview of quantum computation and discuss the physical challenges for building a realistic quantum computer. In chapter 2, we shall explore the applications of quantum computation for the simulation of molecular quantum systems. In particular, an efficient algorithm for evaluating the partition function (and hence free energy) is proposed. In chapter 3, quantum information transfer over spin chains is then discussed. A proof about the most efficient way to transfer quantum information in one dimension is constructed. In chapter 4, we shall consider the effects of quantum correlation induced by quantum mechanical environments on the efficiency of the methods of quantum error correction. In chapter 5, we consider how the thermal noise affects the reliability of an adiabatic quantum computer.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physics

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2010

Author dc:creator

• Yung, Man Hong

Contributors dc:contributor

• Leggett, Anthony J.
• Kwiat, Paul G.
• Schulten, Klaus J.
• Weissman, Michael B.

• quantum computation
• quantum information
• decoherence
• quantum state transfer
• error correlation
• adiabatic quantum computing
• quantum simulation

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2009 Man Hong Yung

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/14565

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/14565