Quantum simulation is revolutionizing our understanding of complex quantum systems by providing unprecedented insights into phenomena beyond the reach of classical computation. This project leverages cutting-edge quantum simulation platforms—quantum annealers and Rydberg atom arrays—to tackle three pivotal challenges in non-equilibrium quantum physics: false vacuum decay in two dimensions, quantum simulation of a real-world quantum material, and symmetry-breaking dynamics during quantum phase transitions. These problems are carefully chosen to align with the unique strengths of these quantum simulators, offering a pathway to practical quantum advantage and new discoveries in non-equilibrium quantum dynamics.
False vacuum decay will be explored on a quantum annealer to study the tunneling-driven transition between metastable and stable states, with tensor network methods providing rigorous benchmarks. Rydberg atom arrays will be used to emulate geometric frustration and interference patterns observed in correlated electron systems, unraveling the interplay of quantum many-body scars and non-equilibrium dynamics. Symmetry-breaking phase transitions will be investigated by simulating transitions across various lattice geometries, probing the crossover between Kibble-Zurek scaling and adiabatic evolution.
By integrating experimental quantum simulations, numerical emulation, and theoretical analysis, this project aims to uncover fundamental mechanisms governing non-equilibrium quantum phenomena and better understand a real-world quantum material. The results will demonstrate the power of current analogue quantum simulators to solve problems inaccessible to classical and digital quantum computation, advancing the frontier of quantum science and technology.
