Quantum walk coherences on a dynamical percolation graph

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a high-coherence, dynamically controlled quantum walk on a percolation graph, enabling advanced simulation of quantum transport in random media with non-Markovian effects.

Contribution

It introduces a novel implementation of quantum walks with dynamic graph control, advancing the simulation of quantum transport in complex, random environments.

Findings

Observation of non-Markovian signatures in coin space

High coherence and control in quantum walk implementation

Successful demonstration of quantum walk on a dynamical percolation graph

Abstract

Coherent evolution governs the behaviour of all quantum systems, but in nature it is often subjected to influence of a classical environment. For analysing quantum transport phenomena quantum walks emerge as suitable model systems. In particular, quantum walks on percolation structures constitute an attractive platform for studying open system dynamics of random media. Here, we present an implementation of quantum walks differing from the previous experiments by achieving dynamical control of the underlying graph structure. We demonstrate the evolution of an optical time-multiplexed quantum walk over six double steps, revealing the intricate interplay between the internal and external degrees of freedom. The observation of clear non-Markovian signatures in the coin space testifies the high coherence of the implementation and the extraordinary degree of control of all system parameters. Our work is the proof-of-principle experiment of a quantum walk on a dynamical percolation graph, paving the way towards complex simulation of quantum transport in random media.